School for School Counselors Podcast

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personnel is coincidental. Details have been altered to protect privacy.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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This work is part of the School for School Counselors body of work developed by Steph Johnson, LPC, CSC, which centers role authority over role drift, consultative practice over fix-it culture, adult-designed systems and environments as primary drivers of student behavior, clinical judgment over compliance, and school counselor identity as leadership within complex systems.

Your Campus Runs on a Pyramid of Lies

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

There’s a reason the same explanation keeps showing up in every staff meeting, every training, every conversation about struggling students.

It feels good.

Problem is- It wasn’t built on evidence.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs became one of the most widely accepted frameworks in education without ever being meaningfully tested the way we use it.

In this episode, we go back to where the pyramid actually came from, walk through what the research has (and hasn’t) found, and take a hard look at why it spread anyway.

Because if the foundation isn’t solid, it doesn’t matter how good your intentions are.

You’re still building on it.

Referred to in this episode:
Ep. 106, "TPT's Dirty Truths & Why You Need an Evidence-Base"

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

Stop Finding Your Why

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

At some point, someone has probably told you to “find your why.”

I gave that advice last week.

I wish I hadn't.

In this episode, I’m getting more personal than I ever have on this podcast.

I’m sharing what one of the hardest years of my career has done to me physically…

what happened when I defaulted to the weakest advice I could have given…

and what the research actually says school counselors should be doing when purpose isn’t enough to keep you going.

If you’ve been trying to survive this year on nothing but passion and willpower- and it’s not working-

This one’s for you.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Your School's Pressure Valve Has a Name. It's You.

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0500

You said yes… then suddenly it was your job.

At some point in your career, something changed.

You stopped being the person students came to see and started being the person students got sent to.

Behavior referrals. Classroom removals. Crisis containment. The emotional labor nobody else knew how to handle.

And it happened one "yes" at a time.

In this episode, I'm taking a hard look at how school counselors slowly became the system's pressure valve- justified by "trauma-informed care"- and why that shift has fundamentally changed what we're asked to do in school counseling.

We'll talk about:

Where role creep actually starts
Why behavior intervention, trauma treatment, and school counseling are three different professional functions
How "helping" can accidentally turn you into the building's behavior containment system
The ethical trap of trying to bridge gaps that the system refuses to fill
The one question that can stop role creep before it becomes your permanent job

Because the thing is:

A pressure valve exists so the system doesn't have to change.

And the moment you stop being one…

the system is forced to find a different solution.

If you've ever felt like your job morphed beyond the role you trained for, this episode will give you the words for what's been happening, and how to get back to doing the work you truly love.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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How Many Rigorous Studies Support Trauma-Informed Schools? Zero.

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

"The research supports trauma-informed schools..."

You've probably heard it in a staff meeting, read it in a district memo, or repeated it yourself. But when you go looking for the studies, something becomes clear: most people are citing a sentence, not a source.

This episode is for the school counselor who's been asked to implement trauma-informed practices without anyone handing you the actual research- and who wants to know what it actually says.

What we cover:

What "trauma-informed schools" actually means in the evidence base (and what it doesn't)
The difference between trauma-informed principles and whole-school implementation
Why rigorous studies are harder to find than most people realize

This isn't an episode about rejecting trauma-informed practice. It's about being the person in the room who actually checked.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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You’re Not the Behavior Department

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Is managing student behavior actually school counseling?

If you’re spending most of your week handling behavior referrals, putting out fires, and decoding defiance before you’ve even opened your calendar… this episode draws a line most schools never clearly defined.

Because somewhere along the way, behavior didn’t just increase.

It migrated.

And it landed in the school counselor’s office.

In this episode, we unpack how school counselors quietly became the default behavior managers in many buildings when discipline structures softened without being clearly replaced.

You’ll hear:

How PBIS and trauma-informed shifts reshaped discipline systems- and what that meant for school counseling roles
Why behavior intervention and school counseling are different specialties
What burnout research actually says about non-counseling duties
The simple line that helps you sort capacity from compliance in real time

If behavior has been swallowing your week, this conversation will help you see what belongs to you... and what doesn’t.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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School Counselor, That's Not Anxiety. Here's How to Prove It.

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, I’m challenging a common habit in school counseling: labeling student distress as “anxiety” before it actually meets clinical criteria.

You’ll hear the research behind "prevalence inflation," how DSM standards separate normal worry from clinical anxiety, and the four-question test that will change how you approach 504 plans, school refusal, and all your anxiety-related counseling referrals.

Because when we mislabel discomfort, exclusion, or instability as anxiety, we don’t just miss the root issue. We build an entire intervention around the wrong problem.

Run the four-question test before you write the accommodation.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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School Counselors, Stop Accommodating Anxiety. (Yes, Really.)

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

What if the anxiety accommodations you've been writing into your 504s and IEPs are actually making your students more anxious?

In this episode, I'm sharing a section from a recent masterclass inside the School for School Counselors Mastermind- one that had members circling accommodations on their plans before it was even over!

You'll hear the research behind why avoidance-based accommodations backfire, how we're accidentally teaching students they can't handle hard things, and one dead-simple question you can ask yourself Monday morning to evaluate any accommodation on your caseload.

Plus- someone left a review calling this podcast "tragic." Wait till you hear my response...

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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School Counseling Has Two Futures- and We’re Running Out of Time

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

You hold a master’s degree. You studied crisis intervention, psychopathology, and therapeutic technique.
So why is your profession still fighting to be seen as essential?

It doesn’t have to stay this way- but the window is closing.

In this episode, I lay out two possible futures for school counseling: one that ends in irrelevance, and one where we finally become the campus influence we were meant to be.

What’s pushing us toward the wrong path isn’t what most counselors think.
And fixing it will require a shift few are talking about.

Stop being helpful. Start being undeniable.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Catalyst Problem in School Counseling

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Most school counselors aren’t ineffective.
They’re mis-measured.

In this episode, Steph challenges one of the profession’s most sacred assumptions and names something about her own work that most counselors wouldn’t dare say out loud.

This conversation explores what it means to do catalytic work in a system obsessed with finished products, and why that mismatch is costing counselors their confidence.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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The Unspoken Cost of Compassion in School Counseling

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Caring is what makes you good at this job. It’s also what puts you in the most danger.

If you’re a school counselor who still cares deeply about students, but you’ve noticed yourself feeling flatter, heavier, or more guarded than you used to- this episode is for you.

You’re still showing up.
Still doing the work.
But the caring itself has started to weigh on you, and you don’t know why.

In this episode, I talk about a kind of exhaustion that doesn’t come from being busy or overwhelmed. It builds from sitting with hard stories, holding emotional weight, and being the safe place for everyone else inside a role that rarely offers closure or relief.

This isn’t about burnout.
It’s about the unspoken cost of compassion in school counseling.

If you’ve ever thought, "Something feels wrong, but I don’t know how to name it," this conversation will help make it make sense.

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Episodes I referred to:

Ep. 87- Some of the Best School Counseling Advice I've Ever Heard

Ep. 180- The Question School Counselors NEVER Get Asked

Ep. 181- Why School Counselors Are So Tired (It’s Not Burnout)

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Why School Counselors Are SO TIRED (It’s Not Burnout)

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

If you’re exhausted in a way that rest doesn’t fix, this episode is for you.

School counselors are often told they’re burned out, so they’re handed self-care tips, boundary advice, and mindset shifts that never quite work. There’s a reason for that.

In this episode, I unpack the research that shows what school counselors are actually dealing with- and why calling it burnout misses the point. When you name the real problem, the way you relate to your exhaustion, your work, and your expectations changes completely.

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Join the next-level conversation in my Substack.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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The Question School Counselors NEVER Get Asked

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

School counselors are told to:

Be flexible
Make it work
Advocate harder

And somehow still be accountable for everything.

But what if the real problem isn’t your mindset- or your effort?

In this episode, Steph Johnson revisits an early message from the podcast and names what was missing. She explains why reassurance has a shelf life, how guilt gets mistaken for professionalism, and why endurance keeps getting rewarded in roles that were never built to work.

This isn’t about doing more.
It’s about seeing the job for what it actually is.

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Join the next-level conversation in my Substack.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Hidden Reason Students Compete Over Everything

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Why does everything at school seem to turn into a competition...
and why does it so often become a school counseling issue?

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, we explore what’s really happening when students compete over small moments and why school counselors are frequently asked to intervene even when there’s no clear behavior problem.

We look at the neurological and social drivers behind competitive behavior, how these moments get misread by adults, and how that misinterpretation quietly increases the workload and pressure placed on school counselors.

This episode isn’t about strategies, tools, or interventions.
It’s about understanding the pattern beneath the referrals.

If you’re a school counselor who feels pulled into situations that don’t quite make sense- but still feel urgent- this conversation will help you see what’s actually happening before the response gets triggered.

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Join the next-level conversation in my Substack.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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"Burns" vs. Bullying: What School Counselors Need to Know

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Everyone was laughing... until suddenly someone wasn’t.

Learn how "burns" work, why it’s usually mutual until it isn’t, and how to know when it’s time to shift from counseling to consequences.

Burn culture shows up in those fast, sarcastic exchanges where students trade “jokes” for laughs, status, and social footing... until someone becomes the cost of the humor.

In this episode, we unpack why these moments feel so hard to respond to in real time, how adolescent peer dynamics fuel them, and how school counselors can step in with confidence when the line has clearly been crossed.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Why Some Students Only Show Up When School Counselors Are Trying to Leave

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Why do some students wait until school counselors are walking out the door before they finally open up?

It’s not randomness, and it’s definitely not manipulation. It’s nervous system timing, and understanding it will change the way you interpret those 3:24 p.m. confessions forever.

In this episode, Steph Johnson breaks down the neurobiology behind “drive-by disclosures” and explains why so many students can only share the hard stuff after the bell rings. You’ll learn:

• Why nervous system safety rises at the end of the school day
• How control and autonomy shape when students speak
• The role attachment patterns play in last-minute disclosures
• How to tell the difference between a disclosure and a true crisis
• What to do in the moment- without sacrificing your boundaries

Most importantly, you’ll hear a grounded, clinical explanation of why students trust you most at the exact moment you feel least available.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why now?” this episode finally gives you the answer.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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What School Counselors Miss About the Hoodie Kids

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

The hoodie isn’t the problem.
It’s the messages we’re missing.

In this episode, Steph Johnson takes you inside one of the most misunderstood behaviors on a school campus: the kids who cover up, layer up, or hide inside hoodies no matter the temperature.

Using research from adolescent psychology, sensory science, trauma, school anxiety, and identity development, Steph explains what hoodie behavior really communicates… and why school counselors are uniquely positioned to decode it.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Are TikTok Dances Actually School Counseling Signals?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Those hallway TikTok routines are saying something, school counselor- and it’s not what you think.

In this episode, we decode what those repeated dance loops reveal about belonging, status, and the adolescent brain.

You’ll learn how synchronized movement functions as a social signal and why these micro-performances can be early indicators of connection, pressure, or exclusion on your campus.

If you’ve ever walked past a TikTok trend at school and wondered what you’re really seeing, this episode gives you the insight you’ve been missing.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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The Hallway’s Got Rizz... Can School Counselors Hear What It’s Saying?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

“Rizz.” “Bet.” “Six-Seven.”

Sounds like noise... but it’s not.

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, Steph Johnson breaks down what teen slang really means, and how it maps your campus culture in ways most adults never notice. You’ll hear the neuroscience behind why slang sticks, the social psychology that makes it powerful, and how school counselors can use it to spot who’s connecting… and who’s slipping through the cracks.

If you’ve ever smiled and nodded through a phrase you didn’t understand, this one’s for you.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

The Hidden Skill That Makes School Counselors Untouchable

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Some counselors never have to fight for their role- or explain their worth.

That’s not luck. It’s skill.

In this episode, you’ll learn how the most respected school counselors earn trust, keep influence, and make their programs untouchable, no “advocacy” required.

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Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us!

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No More Pizza Parties! The Real Way School Counselors Can Fix Attendance

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Students refusing school isn’t new... but what’s happening now is different.

Across the country, nearly one in three students is missing ten percent or more of the school year.

And while everyone’s blaming “attendance apathy” or “bad parenting,” the truth is a lot more complicated.

In this episode, I talk about what school refusal really is- and what it’s not.
You’ll learn the four hidden drivers behind school avoidance, how to spot them, and exactly what school counselors can do (without becoming the attendance police).

We’ll also talk about the conversations no one wants to have, like what to do when it’s the parent keeping the student home, or when a student says flat-out, “I just don’t want to go.”

This isn’t another pep talk about attendance incentives.

It’s a grounded, evidence-based roadmap for helping kids come back to school- and want to stay there.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! As mentioned in the episode, use code OCTOBER 25 for a limited time.⭐️

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Where to go next, depending on what you need today...

NEW → Grab my free Secret Series for School Counselors- Six short stories about what no one’s willing to say in school counseling

Listen to more of the School for School Counselors Podcast- Real talk and honest insights for school counselors tired of pretending it’s all fine

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind- The professional home for school counselors who love the job… and want to keep their sanity

The School Counseling Rollercoaster: 3 Secrets Every Counselor Should Know

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

October hits different, doesn’t it? One week you’re flying high after a student breakthrough, and the next- you’re wondering if you can even make it to Friday.

In this episode, I’m talking about the rollercoaster of school counseling: why it feels impossible to stay grounded this time of year, what’s really fueling the highs and lows, and three sanity-saving ways to keep your footing when everything around you feels like too much.

We’ll get real about the myths we’ve bought into (like thinking we’re supposed to “fix” everything or perfectly follow the ASCA model) and what it actually looks like to stay centered when the job gets heavy.

If you’ve been questioning whether you’re cut out for this work… this conversation might change how you see yourself (and the season you’re in).

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Defiance vs. Dysregulation: The Split-Second Call That Changes Everything

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

The radio call comes in. A student’s refusing to move, and suddenly, everyone’s looking at you to fix it.

Here’s what nobody ever told us in grad school: defiance and dysregulation can look the same from the outside, but they require completely different responses.

This episode gives you a clear, evidence-based way to figure out the difference, match the right tool to the right circumstance, and keep your cool when the pressure’s on.

References

Corrigan, F. M., Fisher, J. J., & Nutt, D. J. (2011). Autonomic dysregulation and the window of tolerance model of the effects of complex emotional trauma. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(1), 17-25.

Lebowitz, E. R., Panza, K. E., & Bloch, M. H. (2016). Family accommodation in obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders: A five-year update. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 16(1), 45-53.

Shahan, T. A. (2022). Explaining extinction and relapse. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 117(3), 360-375.

Siegel, D. J. (2012). The developing mind: How relationships and the brain interact to shape who we are (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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GRADED: Behavior Intervention

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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You’re not a behavior specialist. You’re not a Tier 2 team of one. And you’re definitely not the defiance whisperer.

But… if you’re stuck dealing with behavior anyway, you might as well make it worth it.

In this episode, I’ll show you how school counselors can actually win the long game with behavior intervention—without losing time, credibility, or your mind in the process.

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GRADED: PBIS- Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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PBIS is implemented in over 25,000 schools. Your district swears by it. But does it actually help kids- or just make the data look better?

In this candid episode of my Graded series, I'm giving PBIS the report card it deserves... and it may not be what you expect.

What you'll learn:

The gaps in the research that nobody seems to mention
Why equity matters, and how it isn't automatic in PBIS (with studies to prove it)
The "invisible kids" PBIS never identifies
Real strategies for counselors working inside PBIS systems

By the end, you’ll know what PBIS can do for your campus... and where you’ll need to step in.

⚠️ This episode challenges the status quo. If you're ready for real talk about what's really happening in PBIS schools, press play.

This episode is highly researched: email for reference citations

GRADED: Calm Corners

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Are calm corners helping students regulate... or just giving them a softer way to opt out?

In this episode of Graded, I take a hard look at one of the most popular SEL approaches in schools today: calm corners. You’ll hear what the research says, what most campuses are getting wrong, and what grade calm corners really deserve.

Plus, I respond to a one-star podcast review that called me condescending and gave me a D-minus.
(I could NOT be more grateful! Listen to find out why.)

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

Annotated References

Brasfield, M., Elswick, S., Raines, S., Peterson, C., & Mboge, S. (2025). Classroom calming corners: Peaceful spaces for times of transition. International Journal of the Whole Child, 9(2).
Mixed-methods study with 1st and 6th graders showing improved coping skills when corners were properly implemented with teacher training.

Budiman, M. E. A., Yuhbaba, Z. N., & Cahyono, H. D. (2023). Calming corner therapy in an effort to increase mental resilience in adolescents. Blambangan Journal of Community Services (BJCS), 1(1), 8–16.
Four-week adolescent study finding that resilience improved only with consistent, well-facilitated spaces—structure and follow-through mattered.

Ewert, C. (2023). Influences of privacy on emotional regulation in elementary classroom calming corners [Master's thesis, Trinity Western University]. Trinity Western University Digital Commons.
Study with 15 second-graders over 4 months. Found 81% success rate, but 7% of uses increased dysregulation due to embarrassment and visibility issues.

Thompson, C. (2021). The impact of a classroom calm down corner in a primary classroom [Master's thesis, Northwestern College]. NWCommons.
Action research with 23 second-graders showing decreased negative behaviors, but only when paired with daily mini-lessons: the space alone wasn't enough.

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GRADED: School Counseling Advocacy

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever walked out of an “advocacy meeting” with your admin and thought, Is anything ever going to change?

You brought the data. You showed the charts. You quoted the position statements. And still, you walked away with the same ridiculous caseload, or worse- another responsibility placed on your shoulders.

All that effort doesn’t move the needle. It just keeps you running in circles.

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, I’m grading advocacy as it stands in our profession right now... and let’s just say the report card isn’t pretty.

I’ll unpack why the version of advocacy we’ve been handed sets us up to fail, the traps that keep us stuck shouting into the void, and four strategies that actually move the needle.

If you’ve ever wondered why “advocating harder” hasn’t worked for you (and what you can do differently), this episode is your permission slip to stop playing small and start leading with influence.

References (Annotated)

American School Counselor Association. (2017, December). Advocating for your school counseling program using visibility strategies [Online newsletter]. Advocacy Everyday. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/newsletters/december-2017/advocating-for-your-school-counseling-program-usin?st=nj
This piece includes ASCA’s suggestion to print business cards and introduce yourself with the correct title, examples of the “visibility” strategies counselors are told to use.

American School Counselor Association. (2019). ASCA National Model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.). Author.
The central framework promoted by ASCA, often positioned as the path to respect and clarity for the profession.

American School Counselor Association. (2019). The school counselor and ratios [Position statement]. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/About-School-Counseling/Position-Statements/ASCA-Position-Statements
States the well-known 250:1 ratio and is often used by counselors in advocacy conversations with administrators and policymakers.

American School Counselor Association. (2019). The school counselor and the role of the professional school counselor [Position statement]. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/About-School-Counseling/Position-Statements
Outlines the 80/20 direct vs. indirect services expectation, another widely circulated talking point in counselor advocacy.

American School Counselor Association. (2023, July–August). Advocating for the ASCA National Model. ASCA School Counselor Magazine. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/Magazines/July-August-2023/Advocating-for-the-ASCA-National-Model
Reinforces the idea that promoting the Model itself is advocacy, often suggesting visibility strategies like correcting titles or distributing materials.

Fisher, R., Ury, W., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to yes: Negotiating agreement without giving in (3rd ed.). Penguin Books.
Classic text on principl

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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GRADED Recap: The Best & Worst of School Counseling

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

What if the tools you’ve been told to use as a school counselor are actually working against you?

In this highlights reel, I’m recapping eight of the field’s most popular practices and giving you the real verdict on each.

You’ll hear the truths nobody disputes, the traps that keep counselors spinning their wheels, and the takeaways you can actually use on a real campus.

I’ll even hand you the one-liners and micro-actions you can take straight into your next meeting.

But this isn’t just a recap. It’s a truth bomb episode.

By the end, you’ll know what to keep, what to ditch, and how to defend those choices when the pressure to “do more” shows up.

Hit play and let’s level up.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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GRADED: Confidentiality

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

"What you say in here, stays in here…”

We’ve all said it, but it’s a promise that never came from schools, and it’s costing us trust with students, parents, and administrators.

In this Graded episode, I examine how near-absolute confidentiality has been implemented in school counseling, the fallout it’s created, and why the grade I’m giving it might surprise you.

We’ll trace how confidentiality migrated from clinical counseling into schools without informed consent, why the line we were trained to use is misleading at best, and how it has fueled parental distrust, administrative micromanagement, and even new state legislation.

If you’ve ever felt caught between protecting student privacy and keeping parents informed, this episode will give you the clarity- and the courage- you need to move forward differently.

References (Annotated)

American Counseling Association. (2014). ACA Code of Ethics. Alexandria, VA: Author. https://www.counseling.org/resources/aca-code-of-ethics.pdf
The foundational ethical guide for all counselors. Section B.1.b. and A.2.d. directly address confidentiality with minors and the need to explain limits clearly.

American School Counselor Association. (2022). ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors. Alexandria, VA: Author. https://schoolcounselor.org/ethics
School-specific ethical standards. Section A.2.a. emphasizes protecting confidentiality “to the extent possible,” while A.2.d. requires informing students upfront about its limits.

Harrichand, J. J. S., Knight, A. M., & Captari, L. E. (2021). Moral injury among mental health professionals: Risk, impact, and recovery. Counseling and Values, 66(1), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1002/cvj.12155
Explains how moral injury—acting against one’s ethical compass—contributes to counselor stress and burnout. Directly ties to the personal cost of impossible confidentiality decisions.

Isaacs, M. L., & Stone, C. B. (2001). Confidentiality with minors: Current views and practices of school counselors. Professional School Counseling, 4(4), 258–265. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X0100400405
A classic study showing how school counselors navigate confidentiality with students. One of the earliest peer-reviewed examinations of the real-world gap between ethics and practice.

Remley, T. P., & Huey, W. C. (2002). An analysis of legal and ethical issues in school counseling. Professional School Counseling, 6(1), 33–39. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X0200600107
An overview of common legal/ethical dilemmas in school counseling, including confidentiality, and strategies for reducing liability while maintaining professional integrity.

Stone, C. (2017). School counseling principles: Ethics and law (4th ed.). Alexandria, VA: American School Counselor Association.
Widely used textbook by Carolyn Stone, the leading voice on legal and ethical issues in school counseling. Offers detailed guidance on confidentiality and parent rights.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn fro

GRADED: Minute Meetings

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Minute meetings look great on a spreadsheet. But do they actually help kids? In this episode of Graded, I dig into where this practice really came from, the myths we’ve built around it, and the risks nobody’s talking about, and I’ll share what to do instead.

Minute meetings have taken on near-folklore status in school counseling. They’re all over Pinterest, pushed in Facebook groups, and praised as the “must-do” way to reach every student. But here’s the problem: they didn’t come from research. They came from a 2011 blog post that went viral because it looked proactive and admin-friendly.

I’ll unpack why so many counselors have latched onto them, and the real costs hiding under the surface: wasted time, shaky privacy practices, legal risks, and the illusion of equity.

Most importantly, you’ll leave with stronger, evidence-backed alternatives- systematic data analysis, teacher consultation, and SEL strategies- that replace documentation theater with practices that actually change outcomes.

If you’ve ever wondered whether minute meetings are helping or quietly hurting your program, this episode is for you.

References (Annotated)

American School Counselor Association. (2005). The ASCA National Model: A framework for school counseling programs (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: Author.
This framework formalized the profession’s shift toward “comprehensive, data-driven” programs. Its expectations created pressure on counselors to prove contact and impact—conditions that made quick-fix strategies like minute meetings appealing.

Dahir, C. A., & Stone, C. B. (2006). The transformed school counselor. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Captures the post-ASCA Model climate of accountability and data demands. This context helps explain why counselors gravitated toward visible, trackable practices like minute meetings, even without research support.

Kathuria, T., & Pandya, A. (2023). Can a five-minute meeting improve the wellbeing of students? The Indian school experience. Journal of Psychologists and Counsellors in Schools, 33(2), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1017/jgc.2023.12
The only peer-reviewed study even remotely related to “minute meetings.” Though conducted in India and using a different model (five minutes, not one), it highlights how little empirical research exists to validate this practice in U.S. schools.

Schultz, D. (2011, December 28). Got a minute? School Counselor Blog. https://www.schcounselor.com/2011/12/got-minute.html
Earliest known mention of “minute meetings” in the school counseling world.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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All names, stories, and case studies in this episode are fictionalized composites drawn from real-world circumstances. Any resemblance to actual students, families, or school personn

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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GRADED: Check In, Check Out

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

What if the behavior approach everyone swears by is actually making some kids worse?

Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) is one of the most common Tier 2 interventions in school counseling, but most trainings leave out the detail that decides whether it works or fails.

In this episode, I share the research, the hidden limitation no one’s talking about, and the story of a student who proved that “research-based” doesn’t always mean “right for every kid.”

This episode is highly researched:

Fairbanks, S., Sugai, G., Guardino, D., & Lathrop, M. (2007). Response to intervention: Examining classroom behavior support in second grade. Exceptional Children, 73(3), 288–310.

Filter, K. J., McKenna, M. K., Benedict, E. A., Horner, R. H., Todd, A. W., & Watson, J. (2007). Check in/check out: A post-hoc evaluation of an efficient, secondary-level targeted intervention for reducing problem behaviors in schools. Education and Treatment of Children, 30(1), 69–84.

Hawken, L. S., Bundock, K., Barrett, C. A., Eber, L., Breen, K., & Phillips, D. (2015). Large-scale implementation of check-in check-out: A descriptive study. Canadian Journal of School Psychology, 30(4), 304–319.

Hawken, L. S., MacLeod, K. S., & Rawlings, L. (2007). Effects of the Behavior Education Program (BEP) on office discipline referrals of elementary school students. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 9(2), 94–101.

Klingbeil, D. A., Dart, E. H., & Schramm, S. A. (2019). A systematic review of function‐based modifications to check‐in/check‐out. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 21(1), 3–18.

Maggin, D. M., Zurheide, J., Pickett, K. C., & Baillie, S. (2015). A systematic evidence review of the check‐in/check‐out program for reducing student challenging behaviors. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 17(4), 197–208.

Sottilare, A. L., & Blair, K.-S. C. (2023). Implementation of check-in/check-out to improve classroom behavior of at-risk elementary school students. Behavioral Sciences, 13(3), 257.

Note: "Jake" and "Carrie" are fictional versions of students based on compilations of real stories.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Tired of feeling overworked, underestimated, and buried under responsibilities no one trained you for?

The School for School Counselors Podcast is for real-world counselors who want clarity, confidence, and tools that actually work in real schools... not packaged curriculums or toxic positivity.

You’ll get honest conversations, practical strategies, and a real-world alternative to the one-size-fits-all approach you’ve probably been told to follow.

If the ASCA-aligned model doesn’t fit your campus, it's not your fault.
This podcast is where you’ll finally hear why, and what to do instead.

You don’t need more PD. You need someone who actually gets it.

GRADED: Small Group Counseling

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Small group counseling gets pushed as the fix for everything. But what if we’re getting it wrong?

In this episode:

Why “ASCA-aligned” doesn’t mean effective
The real reason group work is overused
How to spot a pretty curriculum with zero impact

Plus, a student story that stopped me in my tracks.

If you’ve ever run a group just to prove you’re doing Tier 2… this one’s for you.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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GRADED: Use-of-Time Data

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You know that feeling when it’s Friday, and you can’t even explain what you did all week?

Use-of-time tracking is supposed to help- but too often, it feels like just another way to keep school counselors in check.

This week on Graded, we’re pulling apart one of the most pushed- but least supported- tools in school counseling.

We’ll talk about:

Why it’s recommended in the ASCA model—and required in some states
Why real-world counselors struggle to make it stick
What happens when it’s used for control instead of clarity
And how it can be helpful—if you’re the one holding the reins

If you’ve ever felt like you’re working nonstop but still have no proof of it…
this episode might feel like a breath of fresh air.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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GRADED: Needs Assessments

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Needs assessments are everywhere in school counseling, and they're especially enticing when you’re just starting out. They feel like the smart, strategic thing to do. But what if they’re just giving you more to carry?

In this episode, we’re taking a hard look at needs assessments: who’s pushing them, why they’ve become the go-to starting point, and what they can cost you.

We’ll cover the real benefits and the overlooked drawbacks- like ethical risks, political landmines, and the guilt spiral that comes from trying to meet every demand.

You’ll hear how one research-backed insight helped shift the way I think about stakeholder feedback and why your professional judgment might matter more than you’ve been taught.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What am I supposed to do next?”, this episode has answers (and a grade you probably won’t expect!).

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Reference:

Zabek, F., Lyons, M.D., Alwani, N. et al. (2023). Roles and functions of school mental health professionals within comprehensive school mental health systems. School Mental Health 15, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-022-09535-0

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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GRADED: Short-Term Counseling

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

We’ve all been told school counseling should be short-term and goal-focused, and most of us have tried to follow that rule: running six-week groups, setting goals, and wrapping things up quickly.

But when those same students show up in your office again weeks later- or their behavior backslides the moment your group ends- you’re left wondering:
Was it the student… or was it me?

In this episode, we’re talking about the deeper truth behind short-term counseling:

Why it feels like failure,
How it leaves counselors holding the emotional bag, and
What it really means to “stay in scope” when the needs run deeper than the time allows.

How does short-term counseling really measure up?

And when the grade gets revealed… will you agree?

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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GRADED: The ASCA National Model

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In this first episode of the Graded series, we put the ASCA National Model to the test.

What was promised? What’s actually happening? And what grade does it really deserve?

If you’ve ever felt like the model was built for someone else’s school, you are NOT alone!

For over two decades, the ASCA Model has served as the gold standard in school counseling. But for most counselors, the support to make it work just isn’t there.

Not in staffing.

Not in scheduling.

Not in the endless stream of “other duties as assigned.”

You don’t need another pep talk.

You need someone to tell the truth about why the model still isn’t protecting your time- and help you reclaim your confidence in the process.

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Episode References:

Mullen, P. R., Blount, A. J., Lambie, G. W., & Chae, N. (2017). School counselors’ perceived stress, burnout, and job satisfaction. Professional School Counseling, 21(1), 2156759X18782468.

Shillingford, M. A., & Lambie, G. W. (2018). Contribution of Professional School Counselors’ Values and Leadership Practices to Their Programmatic Service Delivery. Professional School Counseling, 13(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X1001300401 (Original work published 2010)

Wilkerson, K., Pérusse, R., & Hughes, A. (2018). Comprehensive School Counseling Programs and Student Achievement Outcomes: A Comparative Analysis of RAMP versus Non-RAMP Schools. Professional School Counseling, 16(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X1701600302 (Original work published 2013)

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Inside the Mind of an Undeniable School Counselor

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You’ve got the heart. You’ve got the training.
So why does it still feel like no one’s listening?

This episode is about the invisible skill no one taught you, but everyone responds to.
The one that separates the school counselors who get looped in…
from the ones who get left out.

It’s not confidence.
It’s not charisma.
And it’s definitely not another credential.

We’re talking about the kind of presence that shifts the energy in a room.
The kind of clarity that builds trust when things get tense.
The kind of leadership that doesn’t wait to be handed a title.

If you’ve ever thought, “I know what I’m doing... so why don’t they see it?”
You’re closer than you think to the answer.

Press play, and let’s talk about what makes a school counselor undeniable.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Should School Counselors Get Their LPC?

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

More and more school counselors are saying, “I’m getting my LPC and getting out.”

But is licensure really the answer- or just a new kind of stress?

In this episode, we take a candid look at what licensure changes, what it doesn’t, and why your next move deserves more than burnout logic.

Plus, I’ll walk you through the hidden costs, the unexpected trade-offs, and what clinical work actually involves (spoiler: it’s not school counseling in a cozier office).

We’ll talk salary.
We’ll talk supervision.
We’ll talk what it really feels like to carry clinical liability.

And most importantly, we’ll ask:
Are you chasing licensure because it aligns with your goals…
Or because you’re trying to escape something no one ever taught you how to fix?

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should get your LPC, this one’s for you.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Why School Counselors Feel Like They’re Failing (Even When They’re Not)

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Still feeling unsure- even with experience under your belt? This episode explains why doubt might be the best sign you’re doing the job well, not a reason to second-guess yourself.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what that uncertainty in school counseling really means. We’ll talk about the invisible labor of school counseling, what the research says about feedback-poor environments, and how self-doubt often shows up right when your skills are leveling up.

You’ll learn:

Why experienced counselors question themselves more, not less
How silence and lack of validation chip away at even the strongest counselors
Why messy, imperfect work is often the most effective
And how to chase credibility instead of certainty

You’re not failing; you’re growing. And you’re not alone.

Mentioned in this episode:

School for School Counselors Mastermind

Free School Counselor Planner

References:

Culbreth, J. R., Scarborough, J. L., Banks‑Johnson, S. B., & Solomon, T. (2005). Role stress among practicing school counselors. Professional School Counseling, 9(2), 106–112.

Dunning, D., & Kruger, J. (1999). Unskilled and unaware of it: How difficulties in recognizing one’s own incompetence lead to inflated self-assessments. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 77(6), 1121–1134.

Falender, C. A., & Shafranske, E. P. (2010). Psychotherapy‑based supervision models in an emerging competency‑based era: A commentary. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 47(1), 45–50.

Hill, C. E., Sullivan, C., Knox, S., & Schlosser, L. Z. (2007). Therapist self‑disclosure: Research-based suggestions regarding clinical training, practices, and ethics. Psychotherapy Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 44(4), 392–407.

Hochschild, A. R. (1983). The managed heart: Commercialization of human feeling. University of California Press.

Jennings, L., & Skovholt, T. M. (2016). In T. M. Skovholt & K. Rønnestad (Eds.), Master therapists: Exploring expertise in therapy and counseling. Routledge.

Skovholt, T. M., & Trotter‑Mathison, M. (2016). The resilient practitioner: Burnout prevention and self‑care strategies for counselors, therapists, teachers, and health professionals (3rd ed.). Taylor & Francis. (Original concept described in earlier editions as an “ambiguity‑rich, feedback‑poor environment.”)

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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It’s Summer! So Why Can’t School Counselors Actually Relax?

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You turned in your keys, packed up your office, and told yourself this summer would be a reset. But instead of relaxing, you feel… off. Either you can’t sit still, or you’ve completely shut down.

Sound familiar?

In this episode, we’re talking about what’s really going on when school counselors can’t seem to rest after the school year ends.

We’ll explore the biological stress cycle, the emotional aftermath of constant crisis response, and why your body might still be on high alert... even if your calendar is empty.

You’ll learn:

Why some counselors feel antsy and others feel emotionally flatlined
What the stress cycle actually is (and why school counselors rarely complete it)
What to do instead of trying to “fix” yourself with productivity
Real strategies to help you downshift: without guilt, pressure, or a color-coded plan
How parenting, performance pressure, and public education expectations all collide in the summer

This isn’t just about feeling better. It’s about reclaiming your nervous system, your peace, and your ability to start the school year as yourself... not the burned-out version you’ve been trying to push through.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!

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How School Counseling’s Best Intentions Turned Against Us

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You followed the model. You tracked the data. You did everything “right.”

So why does it still feel wrong?

In this episode, we talk about how school counseling’s best intentions became a trap, and what to do when the map you were given stops working.

If you’re tired of measuring your worth by minutes and metrics, this one’s for you.

Mentioned in this episode:

Episode 4, "Your Data Does Not Define Your Worth as a School Counselor"

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Why Some School Counselors Get Ignored and Others Don’t

Mon, 26 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Why do some school counselors get a seat at the table while others get sidelined, no matter how qualified they are? In this episode, we’re breaking down what actually builds trust with school leaders and how to develop the on-the-fly fluency and presence that turn you into the go-to, not the afterthought.

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Being good at your job isn’t always enough. You can have the training, the data, and a deep commitment to students... and still get left out of the decision-making process on your campus.

Why? Because influence in schools isn’t about credentials.

It’s about trust.

In this episode, we’re talking about what actually earns school counselors a seat at the table, and why the real key isn’t advocacy, a perfect program, or another use-of-time chart.

You’ll learn:

Why some school counselors get access and others don’t
The five relational traits that build real trust with administrators
How to develop on-the-fly fluency that earns instant credibility
When it’s time to stop chasing influence and pivot strategically
And how to start showing up like a trusted advisor, even without the title

If you’ve ever been passed over, second-guessed, or told to “just follow the model,” this episode is your blueprint for stepping into leadership the right way, without burning out or selling out.

Because trusted advisors aren’t appointed.

They’re revealed- one moment at a time.

Need a downloadable recap of this episode? Say no more!
Go here to get a free copy.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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5 School Counseling Mistakes That’ll Bite You in August

Mon, 19 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

What you forget in May will come back to bite you in August. In this episode, we cover 5 school counseling mistakes that cause chaos when the year starts- and how to avoid them while you still can.

You’re running on fumes. May is chaos. And the last thing you want is another “end-of-year checklist.”

But here’s the truth: what you forget now will turn into a full-on mess in August.

We’re walking through 5 school counseling mistakes that seem small in May but turn into massive headaches when the new year hits. These aren’t the obvious ones, either. We’re talking about the subtle slip-ups that leave you scrambling, frustrated, or starting from scratch… again.

You’ll learn:

What to jot down now that’ll save your sanity in the fall
Why “data reflection” doesn’t have to mean hours of spreadsheets
How to close out the year with intention (even if you’re over it)
The one thing you’re probably skipping that sets the tone for August
A smarter, simpler way to stay sharp over the summer (without burning out)

If you’re a school counselor trying to finish strong without falling apart, this episode is for you.

Mentioned in this Episode:

School for School Counselors Mastermind

List of Closure Activities for Students

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Should I Quit My School Counseling Job?

Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You’ve been holding it in all year.

The long hours, the invisible work, the constant pressure to stay calm while everything around you feels like it’s unraveling... And now that the school year’s winding down, one question keeps echoing louder than the rest:

“Can I really do this again next year?”

In this deeply personal episode, I’m not here to hand you a checklist or tell you what to do. I’m here as a fellow counselor, walking through the same hard questions- right alongside you.

We’ll talk about:

The quiet signs it might be time to move on (even if nothing “dramatic” has happened)
What staying with intention actually looks like
Why redesigning your role could work- and when it absolutely won’t
A gut-check framework that helps you make the call without spiraling
And what to do if you feel like you don’t even have a choice right now

If you’ve ever felt like the only one who’s wondering whether it’s time to go, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone- and you don't have to feel stuck.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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When You Love School Counseling But Hate How It Feels

Mon, 05 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

You love school counseling.

You believe in the mission.

But right now, it just isn't feeling right.

If you’ve been wondering whether you’re burned out, questioning if you can make it through another year, or feeling disconnected from the work you once loved... this episode is for you.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why April and May hit school counselors especially hard
The difference between burnout and professional fatigue
Five evidence-based strategies to protect your energy, motivation, and heart
Why now is not the time to make big career decisions

Forget about self-care clichés. We need to talk about real tools to help you finish strong- and remind you why you started in the first place.

Whether you're tired, frustrated, or just not feeling like yourself at work...

You're not alone. And you're not broken.

Let’s talk about how to keep showing up without burning out.

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⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Three Types of School Counselors: Which One Are You?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Ever meet another school counselor and realize halfway through the conversation…
you’re not doing the same job at all?

It’s not your imagination!
Right now, the title "school counselor" covers very different realities- and depending on which kind you’re seen as, your future in this profession could look very different, too.

In this episode, we’re uncovering what’s really happening inside our profession:

The three types of school counselors showing up on campuses today- and the hidden risks each one faces
The national shifts happening right now (from chaplains replacing counselors to SEL being banned in some states)
Why your professional identity matters more than ever, and what happens if you don't define it for yourself
How to start building skills that make you harder to replace, even when the system keeps changing

Because good intentions won’t protect your job.
Being the go-to for assemblies, spirit weeks, or “positive messaging” campaigns won’t protect your role either.

Only real skill, clarity, and strategic leadership will.

If you're ready to stop hoping the system fixes itself- and start protecting the work that actually matters- this episode is for you.

Sources Consulted:

Selected legislative bills related to school counseling, accessed via LegiScan (including AL HB 583, TX SB 559 and HB 1122, PA HB 249, IN SB 523, MS HB 286, HB 566, HB 371, HB 1533, WV HB 3507, and NV AB 298), April 2025
American School Counselor Association (ASCA) website, accessed April 2025
Alabama School Counselor Association (ALSCA) website, accessed April 2025

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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When Behavior Intervention Just Feels... Wrong

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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Behavior charts. Consequence ladders. ABC data.

They’re everywhere- and school counselors are often expected to be in the middle of it.

But what happens when the behaviorist framework you're handed feels completely misaligned with your counseling instincts?

What if you’re tired of being the “behavior person” when all you want is to help kids feel safe and understood?

In this episode, I'm naming the tension between behaviorism and trauma-informed care, and why school counselors are so often stuck in the middle. We’ll explore how to hold both structure and compassion… and how to begin stepping back into the role that actually reflects your training.

If you’ve ever felt caught between compliance and connection, this one’s for you.

[00:00] Why behavior plans feel off for counselors

[03:00] Behaviorism basics (and why it still dominates)

[06:45] Trauma-informed care: the “can’t,” not “won’t” lens

[10:00] Can you hold structure and compassion?

[14:00] Real-life examples: escape and attention-seeking

[16:30] The problem isn’t just strategy—it’s your role

[17:30] Three frameworks that actually work

[20:00] How to stop being “the behavior person”

[24:00] Four ways to shift the narrative

[27:00] Final encouragement + your next step

References

Barth, R. P., Lee, B. R., Lindsey, M. A., Collins, K. S., Strieder, F. H., Chorpita, B. F., Becker, K. D., & Snowden, L. R. (2004). Evidence-based practice in mental health services for youth. The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, 31(2), 213–233. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02287377

Berger, E., Green, S., & Dalton, L. (2019). Educator perceptions of trauma-informed care in schools: A qualitative study. School Mental Health, 11(3), 483–496. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-019-09323-z

Blaustein, M., & Kinniburgh, K. (2010). Treating traumatic stress in children and adolescents: How to foster resilience through attachment, self-regulation, and competency. Guilford Press.

Greene, R. W., Ablon, J. S., & Goring, J. C. (2003). A transactional model of oppositional behavior: Underpinnings of the Collaborative Problem Solving approach. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 41(11), 20–25. https://doi.org/10.3928/0279-3695-20031101-08

Overstreet, S., & Chafouleas, S. M. (2016). Trauma-informed schools: Introduction to the special issue. School Mental Health, 8(1), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-016-9184-1

Perry, B. D. (2006). Fear and learning: Trauma-related factors in the adult education process. In S. Johnson & K. Taylor (Eds.), The Neuroscience of Learning and Development (pp. 123–142). Jossey-Bass.

Perry, B. D., & Szalavitz, M. (2017). The boy who was raised as a dog: And other stories from a child psychiatrist’s note

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Behavior Plans, Explained

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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You’ve been looped into a student’s behavior.
The teacher wants it fixed.
Admin wants a behavior plan.
And now everyone’s looking at you.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I don’t even know where to start,” this episode is for you.

We’re walking through the full behavior intervention process, from collecting ABC data to building a real Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), so you know exactly what’s involved, what your role should be, and how to stop being the person everyone hands it off to.

You’ll learn:

What actually makes a behavior plan effective
Where school counselors fit into the process (and where we don’t)
How to avoid the “throw spaghetti at the wall” method of intervention
Why consistency- not quick fixes- is what really moves the needle

This episode won’t give you a one-size-fits-all template.

But it will help you understand the full picture, speak the language of your behavior teams, and start showing up like the professional you already are.

Resources:

American School Counselor Association. (2022). ASCA ethical standards for school counselors. https://schoolcounselor.org/ethics

Chandler, L. K., & Dahlquist, C. M. (2015). Functional assessment: Strategies to prevent and remediate challenging behavior in school settings (4th ed.). Pearson.

Shahan, T. A. (2022). A theory of the extinction burst. Perspectives on Behavior Science, 45(3), 495–519. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40614-021-00297-z

U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance. (n.d.). What Works Clearinghouse. https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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What Schools Get Wrong About ADHD

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Want support with real-world strategies that actually work on your campus? We’re doing that every day in the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Come join us! ⭐️

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We’ve got to stop calling it "defiance" when it’s actually dysregulation.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what ADHD really is- and why the strategies we often use in schools aren’t cutting it. You’ll learn:

Why ADHD isn’t a behavior problem (and what it actually is)
The critical difference between knowing and doing
Why worksheets, clip charts, and “just try harder” don’t work
What school counselors can do instead to actually help

If you’ve ever had a student who “knows the rules” but can’t seem to follow them, this one’s for you.

And if you’re tired of seeing kids punished for things they haven’t learned how to manage yet?

You’re in the right place... Let's go!

Resources:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Barkley, R. A. (1997). ADHD and the nature of self-control. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Barkley, R. A. (2011). Executive functions: What they are, how they work, and why they evolved. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Brown, T. E. (2013). A new understanding of ADHD in children and adults: Executive function impairments. Routledge.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Data and statistics about ADHD. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html

Quinn, P. O., & Madhoo, M. (2014). A review of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in women and girls: uncovering this hidden diagnosis. The primary care companion for CNS disorders, 16(3), 27250.

Shaw, P., Eckstrand, K., Sharp, W., Blumenthal, J., Lerch, J. P., Greenstein, D. E. E. A., ... & Rapoport, J. L. (2007). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is characterized by a delay in cortical maturation. Proceedings of the national academy of sciences, 104(49), 19649-19654.

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Beyond the Behavior Bouncer

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be. ⭐️

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In the previous episode, we talked about what happens when a behavior referral isn’t really about the student- and how counselors can shift out of the “removal service” role and into real consultation.

But what if that doesn’t feel realistic?

This bonus episode tackles the pushback:

What if your admin expects you to remove students, no questions asked?
What if your teachers are too burned out to reflect?
What if you barely have time to breathe, let alone consult?

We’re walking through the most common objections counselors have and how to shift your role anyway, one step at a time.

If last week’s episode made you think, “That sounds great, but it won't work on my campus,” this one’s for you.

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The Behavior Problem School Counselors Aren't Supposed to Talk About

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be. ⭐️

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You get the call:

“Can you come get this student?”

But when you walk in, it’s clear- this isn’t really about the kid.

It’s about stress. Dysregulation. Maybe even burnout. For the adult.

And if school counselors keep stepping in without asking bigger questions, we’re not solving the problem… we’re just keeping the cycle going.

In this episode, we’re talking about:

How to tell when a referral isn’t about student behavior
The Five-Minute Behavior Consult you can use with teachers today
How to support staff without becoming the fixer
Why this shift protects your energy- and your job

If behavior support is starting to feel like your full-time job, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction: The Daily Struggles of School Counselors

02:10 Understanding Adult Dysregulation in Schools

07:17 Identifying Signs of Adult-Induced Student Behavior Issues

11:30 The Five Minute Behavior Consult: A Solution-Focused Approach

17:35 Implementing Change Despite Administrative Challenges

21:00 The Role of School Counselors in Shaping School Culture

24:40 Elevating the Role of School Counselors

References:
Gallup. (2022, June 1). K-12 workers have highest burnout rate in U.S. Gallup News. https://news.gallup.com/poll/393500/workers-highest-burnout-rate.aspx

Schwartz, S. (2022, June 15). Stress, burnout, depression: Teachers and principals are not OK right now, new data confirm. Education Week. https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/stress-burnout-depression-teachers-and-principals-are-not-doing-well-new-data-confirm/2022/06

Steiner, E. D., & Woo, A. (2021). Job-related stress threatens the teacher supply: Key findings from the 2021 State of the U.S. Teacher Survey (RR-A1108-1). RAND Corporation. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1108-1.html

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Do Social Stories Really Work?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be. ⭐️

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You’ve been asked to read a Social Story to a student—again.

And if you're being honest… you’re not sure it’s actually doing anything.

In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the research behind Social Stories:

Where they came from and what they were actually designed to do
What the peer-reviewed literature says about their effectiveness (and what it doesn’t)
How they can support emotional regulation... if you use them the right way
The time frame for change (hint: it’s slower than you think)
What to say when someone insists you “just need a social story”

Plus, you’ll get practical guidance on when and how to use Social Stories, and a free downloadable cheat sheet to help you back up your decisions with confidence.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it me… or is it the tool?”—this episode is for you.

Bonus: Grab the printable Social Stories resource pdf here

00:00 The Social Story Dilemma

01:49 Origins and Purpose of Social Stories

03:08 Research Findings on Social Stories

09:02 Emotional Regulation and Social Stories

11:44 Practical Advice for School Counselors

21:20 Conclusion and Resources

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Bullying or Just Drama? The School Counselor’s Guide to Getting It Right

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

➡️ JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR THE BEHAVIOR BREAKTHROUGH KIT!

Every school counselor has been there—stuck in a conversation where the word "bullying" is thrown around, but something feels off.

A parent demands action because their child was left out of a game at recess. A teacher sends a referral for a “bullying” case that turns out to be a one-time disagreement. Meanwhile, students facing real, targeted harassment often go unnoticed in the noise.

So, how do you cut through the confusion and handle these situations the right way?

Here’s what I'm talking about in this episode:

- The 3 key markers of real bullying (and why missing even one changes everything)
- The biggest mistakes schools make when defining bullying—and how to fix them
- How to explain bullying vs. drama to parents, teachers, and admin (without the pushback)
- What to do when students over-report (or under-report) bullying
- The exact words to use when a parent insists, “This IS bullying!”

If you’re tired of mediating every social conflict and want a clear strategy for handling true bullying cases, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction: The Bullying Dilemma

01:23 Understanding the Difference: Bullying vs. Drama

05:15 Key Indicators of Bullying

06:54 Handling Peer Drama

08:57 Communicating with Parents and Administrators

12:48 Effective Responses to Bullying and Peer Conflict

19:27 Resources

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Relational Aggression and Bullying

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

"It's just middle school drama."
"Ignore them, and it'll stop."
"You're gonna have to toughen up."

Sound familiar? These are the kinds of dismissive responses students often hear when they report bullying or relational aggression—and they’re not helping. In fact, with 1 in 5 students reporting being bullied and 41% of those fearing it will happen again, we’ve got serious work to do.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into relational aggression and cyberbullying, breaking down what makes these behaviors so damaging, why they often go unnoticed, and—most importantly—how school counselors can step in effectively.

You’ll learn:
✅ The subtle ways relational aggression shows up in schools (and how to spot it)
✅ How cyberbullying is evolving and why it’s getting harder to combat
✅ Practical, real-world strategies for supporting students and stopping these behaviors before they escalate

Plus, I’m giving you a sneak peek at my upcoming Behavior Breakthrough Kit—a game-changing resource packed with evidence-based strategies, a behavior intervention flowchart, and more tools to help you handle tough behavior challenges with confidence. [Go here to join the waitlist]

If handling concerns around relational aggression, cyberbullying, and behavior intervention are keeping you up at night, this episode is for you.

00:00 Introduction

00:26 The Reality of Bullying Statistics

01:37 Understanding Relational Aggression

04:14 The Rise of Cyberbullying

05:43 Emotional and Academic Impact

06:58 Intervention Strategies

07:58 Creating Safe Reporting Spaces

09:32 Collaborating with Teachers

10:33 Supporting Targeted Students

15:33 Behavior Breakthrough Kit

19:51 Conclusion

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How to Handle Student Behavior Like a Pro

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0600

You know that moment—the banshee scream echoes down the hall, and suddenly, all eyes are on you. The walkies go off, teachers are calling your name, and once again, you’re expected to drop everything and handle the latest behavior meltdown.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

This time of year, behavior issues ramp up, and school counselors often find themselves at the center of the storm. But honestly, most of the advice out there on behavior intervention is not designed for you. You’re not a teacher managing a classroom. You’re not an administrator making discipline decisions. So what should your role be?

In this episode, we’re looking at:
✔ Why traditional behavior strategies don’t always work for school counselors
✔ The three biggest obstacles standing in your way
✔ Real, practical de-escalation techniques that actually work in the moment
✔ How to handle the pressure, the judgment, and the constant disruptions

And if you’re exhausted from being called to behavior crises over and over again, we’ve got support for you.

💡 The Behavior Breakthrough Kit is coming soon—practical, ready-to-use tools to help you navigate behavior intervention with confidence. [Click here to join the waitlist.]

💡 Want real-time troubleshooting and expert support? Join us inside the School for School Counselors Mastermind. Get weekly case consultations and practical strategies you won’t find anywhere else. [Click here to learn more]

Behavior intervention doesn’t have to drain you. Let’s talk about what actually works.

00:00 The Banshee Scream: A School Counselor's First Experience

01:25 Welcome to the School for School Counselors Podcast

02:09 The Reality of Behavior Intervention in Schools

03:32 Real Talk: Effective Behavior Intervention Strategies

04:10 The Authoritative Counselor Approach

05:30 Challenges in Behavior Intervention

10:43 Practical Techniques for De-escalation

20:00 Support and Resources for School Counselors

22:41 Conclusion: Navigating Behavior Intervention Together

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Fat-Free Fix That’s Failing School Counselors

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

As busy school counselors, we often find ourselves reaching for quick-fix solutions to help our students. But are these convenient resources truly serving our students' needs? In this episode, I challenge the effectiveness of "print and pray" materials that have become way too common in our field.

Thinking back to the misguided "fat-free" diet craze of the 90s, I explore how mass-produced school counseling worksheets and activities might be doing more harm than good. Because while they promise quick results and seem helpful on the surface, they often lack the substance needed for meaningful change.

00:00 Introduction: 90s Diet Culture

02:21 The Problem with "Print and Pray" Resources

04:33 Effective Counseling Strategies

06:50 Behaviorism and Counseling

08:15 Trauma-Informed Care in Counseling

09:48 Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

12:39 Practical Tips for School Counselors

20:11 Conclusion

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How to Make Your School Feel Less Toxic (No Admin Approval Needed)

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Can small acts of kindness truly transform a school environment? Or is that just wishful thinking?

As we dive into Random Acts of Kindness Week, I’m sharing my firsthand experiences as a school counselor navigating workplace challenges—and how I discovered that the simplest gestures can have the biggest impact on school culture.

Imagine a school where stress doesn’t rule the day, burnout isn’t lurking around every corner, and job satisfaction actually exists—all because kindness became a deliberate daily habit.

In this episode, we’ll break down the science behind kindness- how it can actually reduce stress, boost resilience, and create ripple effects across an entire campus- for adults AND students.

If you’re looking for a practical, zero-cost strategy to not only shift your school’s atmosphere but also protect your own mental health, this episode is for you.

Grab daily Kindness Week challenges here.

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School Counselors Deserve Better! The Advocacy Problem No One Admits

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

Happy National School Counseling Week! Or maybe not?

There’s a growing divide in how school counselors feel about this week—some dive in with enthusiasm, while others don't want to be bothered. And honestly, after what I’ve been seeing lately, I get it.

In this episode, I talk through the uncomfortable truths about school counseling advocacy: what’s missing, why it matters, and how we’ve been misled about who’s actually fighting for us. (Spoiler: If you think your national organization has your back, you might want to think again.)

I also break down concerning new legislation across the country, exposing the lack of organized advocacy in our profession, and sharing why our current efforts just aren’t cutting it. But here’s the thing—we’re not powerless. There’s a better way to advocate, and it starts with YOU.

If you’re tired of the same old conferences and feel-good slogans while school counseling falls apart behind the scenes, this episode is for you.

00:00 Mixed Reactions to National School Counseling Week

01:23 Facebook Group Insights

02:49 Legislative Concerns and ASCA's Role

04:30 Critique of ASCA and Advocacy Issues

14:30 State Organizations and Legislative Challenges

21:46 Call to Action and Positive Notes

22:32 Listener Submissions: Why We Love School Counseling

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Mastering Caseloads in School Counseling

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

*Leave a voicemail here for a chance to be featured in an upcoming podcast episode!*

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses managing school counseling caseloads efficiently. Using an iconic conveyer belt tv scene as an analogy, she highlights the overwhelmed feeling counselors often experience and the need to triage student needs effectively.

Johnson shares her method for tracking her student interactions, stressing the importance of developing sustainable habits. She references James Clear's "Atomic Habits" to emphasize the significance of cues, cravings, responses, and rewards in creating lasting habits.

Additionally, she touches on upcoming events like the listener feature opportunity and the upcoming 'Your Super Power Driven Program' masterclass on February 9th.

Join her in improving your counseling practice and ensuring no student falls through the cracks.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:03 The Candy Factory Analogy

02:54 Challenges of Managing Caseloads

04:16 Strategies for Tracking Caseloads

14:05 Developing Effective Habits

22:22 Upcoming Events and Opportunities

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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A Realistic Approach to National School Counseling Week

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

In this episode, Steph Johnson, a full-time school counselor, talks through National School Counseling Week, sharing her thoughts on its purpose and the many mixed emotions it stirs among school counselors.

Steph addresses various reactions from excitement to frustration and offers simple strategies for observing the week on campus.

She highlights the importance of effective advocacy, explains why internal support and relationship-building are crucial, and emphasizes the value of recognizing and validating counselors' efforts.

Additionally, Steph provides insights into the School for School Counselors Mastermind and encourages listeners to share their voices for an upcoming podcast episode.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of National School Counseling Week

03:55 Different Reactions to National School Counseling Week

08:03 Challenges in Advocacy and Support

11:57 Effective Advocacy From the Inside Out

22:18 Low-Stress Ways to Observe National School Counseling Week

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Stop Using AI Like This: What Every Counselor Should Know

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

In this episode, Steph Johnson continues exploring how artificial intelligence is influencing school counseling. She unpacks the risks of depending too much on AI-generated tools and stresses the need for strong professional judgment to evaluate the quality and relevance of resources. Steph also dives into the ethical challenges posed by AI- including protecting student privacy- and underscores the irreplaceable value of authentic, human connection in counseling. This conversation is a call to action for school counselors to reflect on their practices, rekindle their passion for their craft, and deepen their impact on students.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Feeling Undervalued on Campus
00:25 Recap of AI in School Counseling (Previous Episode)
01:10 Professional Fluency: The Key to Credibility
04:23 Perceptions of School Counseling Work
07:05 The SEL Lesson Debate
13:00 Risks of AI-Generated Resources
24:28 Ethical Concerns: AI and Student Privacy
30:06 A Call to Reignite Your Passion

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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A.I. and School Counseling

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the growing trend of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in school counseling. Steph shares her concerns about the premature adoption of AI tools and their potential to undermine the core values and techniques of effective counseling. She emphasizes the importance of human connection, evidence-based techniques, and professional fluency over quick AI-generated solutions. This episode delves into the ethical implications, the dangers of AI biases, and the need for critical thinking before relying on AI-generated resources, encouraging school counselors to remain cautious and informed as they navigate this evolving technology.

00:00 Introduction to AI in School Counseling

01:31 The AI Hype and School Counseling

02:59 Concerns About AI in Counseling

04:51 Ethical Considerations and Professional Fluency

07:44 Personal Use and Limitations of AI

15:45 AI's Hallucinations and Biases

20:10 Next Steps

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What I'm Using Most in My School Counseling Office These Days

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

This episode surveys some of the things I'm using most in my school counseling office right now to promote connection, self-awareness, and emotional well-being.

00:00 Welcome Back!

00:29 Holiday Reflections and New Year Goals

02:49 Preparing for the Spring Semester

05:15 Favorite Counseling Office Supplies

17:56 Join the Free Community

19:10 Final Encouragement

Resources:

Greatness Cards

Conscious Discipline Feelings Buddies

All Other Materials (in my Amazon Storefront)

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One Big Reason Behavior Charts Fail (And What You Can Do Instead)

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today to become the school counselor you were meant to be.*

Have you ever worked with a student labeled as “ODD” and felt like nothing you tried was working? In this episode, I’m revisiting one of our most talked-about topics: oppositional defiant behaviors in schools. But instead of focusing on the label, we’re reframing the conversation to explore what’s really happening beneath the surface.

I’ll walk you through why traditional strategies like behavior charts often fail these students, and more importantly, how you can build stronger connections and create real change.

This episode is packed with practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and a little dose of encouragement to keep going.

Let’s rethink how we approach oppositional behaviors—and discover better ways to help our students thrive!

00:00 Welcome and Holiday Hustle

03:45 Introduction to Oppositional Defiant Disorder

08:55 Understanding and Addressing ODD

18:29 Building Relationships and Support

28:02 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Prep NOW for a Stress-Less Spring Semester

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

*Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind today for the techniques, support, and confidence you need to handle whatever this semester throws your way.*

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the common issue of school counselors feeling unprepared, whether broadly from grad school or specifically day-to-day. She offers actionable tips to prepare for the new semester, emphasizing the importance of decluttering both physical and digital spaces, setting up efficient systems, and planning for self-care. Steph also highlights the significance of tracking program data and creating templates for repetitive tasks to save time. Finally, she encourages a simple return plan and shares the benefits of the School for School Counselors Mastermind community.

00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Feeling Unprepared

01:02 Welcome to the School for School Counselors Podcast

01:44 Preparing for the New Semester: Decluttering

05:43 Digital Organization: Reducing Cognitive Load

06:54 Setting Up Systems for Success

12:02 Self-Care Plans for the Spring Semester

14:40 Creating a Simple Return Plan

17:46 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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A Super-Simple Challenge to COMPLETELY Change Your Year

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind to finally feel supported in your career

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the end-of-semester doubts many counselors feel about their impact. She emphasizes that the true value of school counseling lies in small, often unnoticed moments that ripple through students' lives. Steph shares personal experiences, the science of gratitude, and introduces 'gratitude expansion' to help counselors find deeper meaning and resilience in their work. This insightful discussion is meant to empower and validate counselors, especially during stressful times of the academic year.

00:00 Facing the End of the Semester

01:10 The Power of Small Moments

02:40 Listener Review and Community Support

04:03 A Story of Impact and Reflection

06:10 The Science and Practice of Gratitude

10:43 Implementing Gratitude in Your Daily Routine

12:54 Encouragement and Conclusion

References/For Further Reading:

Algoe, S. B. (2012). Find, remind, and bind: The functions of gratitude in everyday relationships. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 6(6), 455-469. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-9004.2012.00439.x

Amabile, T. M., & Kramer, S. J. (2011). The progress principle: Using small wins to ignite joy, engagement, and creativity at work. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. https://hbr.org/2011/05/the-power-of-small-wins

Baumeister, R. F., Bratslavsky, E., Finkenauer, C., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Bad is stronger than good. Review of General Psychology, 5(4), 323-370. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.5.4.323

Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377-389. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.84.2.377

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Four-Tenths of One Percent Means You're NOT Failing

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind to finally feel supported in your career

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the unrealistic expectations set by comprehensive school counseling programs and offers practical advice on how to find peace and redefine success in the field.

By focusing on what is within their control, embracing small victories, and finding joy in their daily tasks, school counselors can better manage the pressures of their role.

00:00 Introduction: The Struggles of School Counselors

00:34 Welcome Back: Revisiting a Popular Episode

00:52 The Holiday Pressure and Unrealistic Expectations

04:49 Making Peace with a Non-Comprehensive Program

09:15 The Circle of Control: Focusing on What You Can Change

13:05 The Reality of Comprehensive Programs

19:06 RAMP Status: Putting Things in Perspective

27:16 Final Thoughts

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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When Less is More in Your School Counseling Program

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0600

⭐️ Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind to build a "stress-less" career

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses an issue many school counselors face: the overwhelming number of "urgent" student requests.

She argues that constantly "saving the day" might actually hurt student development and introduces a framework for triaging student concerns.

Drawing on research by Ryan and Deci on self-determination theory, she emphasizes the importance of fostering student autonomy for psychological well-being.

Steph outlines key questions counselors can use to decide when to intervene or step back, aiming to balance immediate support needs with opportunities for student growth.

The episode also touches on strategies for explaining this approach to school staff, keeping professional fluency, and joining the School for School Counselors Mastermind group to discuss and refine these practices.

00:00 Introduction: The Overwhelmed School Counselor

00:49 Welcome to the Podcast

01:48 The Problem with Being a Superhero Counselor

07:13 The Importance of Student Autonomy

13:03 A Framework for Triage in School Counseling

20:15 Implementing Autonomy Supportive Strategies

28:45 Building Professional Fluency

30:37 Conclusion and Resources

Link to Decision-Making Question List

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Resources:

Eagle, J. W., Dowd-Eagle, S. E., Snyder, A., & Holtzman, E. G. (2015). Implementing a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS): Collaboration between school psychologists and administrators to promote systems-level change. Journal of Educational and Psychological Consultation, 25(2-3), 160-177.

Epstein, J. L. (2018). School, family, and community partnerships: Preparing educators and improving schools (2nd ed.). Routledge.

Friend, M., & Cook, L. (2017). Interactions: Collaboration skills for school professionals (8th ed.). Pearson.

Reeve, J. (2009). Why teachers adopt a controlling motivating style toward students and how they can become more autonomy supportive. Educational Psychologist, 44(3), 159-175.

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Press.

Su, Y. L., & Reeve, J. (2011). A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of intervention programs designed to support autonomy. Educational Psychology Review, 23(1), 159-188.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Are You Chasing the Right School Counseling Goals?

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the 'School for School Counselors' podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses a major misstep she nearly made by trying to follow someone else's advice rather than staying true to her authentic style.

She explores the unrealistic expectations placed on school counselors, scrutinizing the ideal ASCA model and encouraging listeners to focus on meaningful change rather than unattainable perfection.

Steph highlights the significance of becoming an expert in areas that create real impact instead of adhering to scripted tasks, and urges school counselors to pursue authenticity and connection in their professional roles.

00:00 Introduction: A Near Miss and a Lesson Learned
00:47 Welcome to the School for School Counselors Podcast
01:59 The Misstep: Following Someone Else's Plan
03:06 The Importance of Authenticity
06:45 Rethinking School Counseling Goals
07:20 The Reality of School Counseling Standards
14:59 Becoming an Expert and Making a Difference
19:15 Conclusion: Embracing Change and Staying Motivated

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How Can We Truly Support Gifted & 2E Students?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson talks through the unique challenges faced by gifted and twice exceptional students. Despite their abilities, these students often struggle with perfectionism, social isolation, and managing dual needs. Steph discusses practical strategies for school counselors to support these students.

She also introduces the new "Technique of the Week" segment as well as insights into the goings-on in her own school counseling program.

00:00 Introduction: The Struggles of Gifted Students

01:34 Understanding Gifted and Twice Exceptional Students

05:14 Diving Deeper into Gifted Students' Challenges

07:44 Strategies for Supporting Gifted Students

13:59 Technique of the Week

GET THE FREE OUTREACH PLANNING GUIDE HERE

GET THE FREE ROLE-PLAY TECHNIQUE GUIDE HERE

References/Resources:

Assouline, S. G., & Whiteman, C. S. (2011). Twice-exceptional learners: Psychological and educational perspectives. Psychology in the Schools, 48(3), 205-214.

Baum, S. M., & Owen, S. V. (2004). To be gifted and learning disabled: Strength-based strategies for helping twice-exceptional students achieve success in school and life. Prufrock Press.

Foley Nicpon, M., Allmon, A., Sieck, B., & Stinson, R. D. (2011). Empirical investigation of twice-exceptionality: Where have we been and where are we going? Gifted Child Quarterly, 55(1), 3-17.

Reis, S. M., Baum, S. M., & Burke, E. (2014). An operational definition of twice-exceptional learners. Gifted Child Quarterly, 58(3), 217-230.

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Dignity-Driven Holiday Outreach Programs

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

How can we create holiday outreach programs that truly lift up our students, without compromising their dignity? Join me, Steph Johnson, and let's discuss the heart of compassionate holiday outreach. We'll explore practical, ethical strategies that make a real impact, especially for students facing economic challenges or homelessness. Together, we’ll look at what works (and what doesn’t) with programs like coat drives and gift trees, and how we can avoid the common pitfalls that sometimes reinforce the very barriers we're trying to break.

It takes more than just good intentions to plan a successful holiday outreach program: it takes foresight, collaboration, and a solid game plan. We’ll walk through the essential steps for organizing an initiative that hits home, from early planning and community buy-in to volunteer coordination and mindful promotion. With a little strategic thinking and support from resources like the School for School Counselors Mastermind Initiatives, even the smallest contributions can make a huge difference. Let's make this holiday season not just a warm memory for our students, but a meaningful experience for the whole school community.

GET THE FREE OUTREACH PLANNING GUIDE HERE

Start planning now to ensure a rewarding holiday outreach effort.

00:00 Introduction: Are Your Holiday Outreach Efforts Effective?

03:18 Empowering vs. Reinforcing Challenges

04:24 Special Populations and Holiday Stress

07:51 Coordinating Outreach Efforts

09:41 Aligning Outreach with Ethical Guidelines

10:49 Inclusive Giving: Everyone Can Contribute

13:12 Creating a Successful Holiday Outreach Program

21:14 Sharing Success and Impact

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References/Resources:

American School Counselor Association (2016). Ethical standards for school counselors. ASCA. Retrieved from ASCA Ethical Standards

Evans, G.W. and Kim, P. (2013), Childhood Poverty, Chronic Stress, Self-Regulation, and Coping. Child Dev Perspect, 7: 43-48. https://doi.org/10.1111/cdep.12013

Gershoff, E. T., Aber, J. L., Raver, C. C., & Lennon, M. C. (2007). Income is not enough: Incorporating material hardship into models of income associations with parenting and child development. Child Development, 78(1), 70-95. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2007.00986.x

McNeely, C., & Falci, C. (2004). School connectedness and the transition into and out of health-risk behavior among adolescents: A comparison of social belonging and teacher support. Journal of School Health, 74(7), 284-292. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ743601

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Avoid Paper-Pencil Pitfalls in Your School Counseling Office

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This episode is a comprehensive guide for school counselors aiming to improve their engagement with students. Moving beyond traditional worksheets, it provides information about evidence-based, individualized strategies and innovative interventions, particularly those with special needs.

The discussion emphasizes the critical evaluation of widely-used resources like those from Teachers Pay Teachers, the necessity of culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices, and aligning interventions with students' IEPs and behavior plans.

00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Worksheets

00:43 Rethinking Tools for Special Needs Students

02:17 The Appeal and Pitfalls of Worksheets

04:36 Personal Story: The Backpack Exercise

07:51 The Convenience vs. Effectiveness Debate

10:53 Concerns About Unvetted Resources

16:13 Focus on Special Student Populations

18:29 Individualized Approaches for Special Populations

20:21 Culturally Responsive and Trauma-Informed Practices

21:40 Practical Sensory-Based Interventions

23:27 Art and Movement-Based Techniques

27:10 Role-Playing and Therapeutic Games

30:22 Recap and Final Thoughts

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References/Resources:

Cook, B. G., & Odom, S. L. (2013). Evidence-based practices and implementation science in special education. Exceptional Children, 79(2), 135-144. doi:10.1177/001440291307900201

Dunn, W. (2001). The sensations of everyday life: Empirical, theoretical, and pragmatic considerations. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 55(6), 608-620. doi:10.5014/ajot.55.6.608

Hammond, Z. (2015). Culturally responsive teaching and the brain: Promoting authentic engagement and rigor among culturally and linguistically diverse students. Corwin Press.

Morgan, P. L., Farkas, G., Tufis, P. A., & Sperling, R. A. (2008). Are reading and behavior problems risk factors for each other? Journal of Learning Disabilities, 41(5), 417-436. doi:10.1177/0022219408321123

Reinke, W. M., Herman, K. C., & Sprick, R. (2011). Motivational interviewing for effective classroom management: The classroom check-up. Guilford Press.

Rimm-Kaufman, S. E., & Hulleman, C. S. (2015). SEL in the classroom: Identifying and disseminating strategies. The Future of Children, 27(1), 149-172. doi:10.1353/foc.2017.0003

Scarpa, A., Williams White, S., & Attwood, T. (2013). CBT for children and adolescents with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders. Guilford Press.

Shaywitz, S. E., & Shaywitz, B. A. (2005). Dyslexia (specific reading disability). Biological Psychiatry, 57(11), 1301-1309. doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2005.01.043

Shelton, C., & Archambault, L. (2019). Lessons learned from Teachers Pay Teachers: Exploring the educational value of online marketplaces. Journal of Online Learning Research, 5(1), 35-56. Available from: ResearchGate.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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School Counselors' Secret Weapons for Special Pops Success

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ever feel like juggling the needs of special populations is pushing you to the brink? It doesn’t have to be that way! Join me, Steph Johnson, as we break down the often overwhelming world of school counseling and dive into real, evidence-based strategies for advocating for your students without burning out. We’ll talk about your ethical and legal responsibilities under ASCA standards, IDEA, and Section 504, and I’ll share ideas on how to lighten the load. Whether you're supporting students in special education, 504 plans, gifted programs, or English language learners, this episode will help you take care of your students and yourself.

00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Serving Every Student

01:50 Understanding Special Populations

04:53 Ethical and Legal Responsibilities

08:12 Challenges Faced by School Counselors

14:51 Strategies for Effective Support

24:18 Conclusion and Encouragement

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Resources:

As mentioned in the episode, the resources list for this episode is too lengthy to post here. Email the show for a detailed list.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Habits for School Counselor Hustle

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ready to Tame the School Year Chaos? In this episode of School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson dives into the power of building habits that stick—even in the whirlwind of school counseling life.

Discover how to manage your ever-growing to-do list using James Clear’s proven habit loop framework: cue, craving, response, and reward.

Steph’s got you covered with practical tips for mastering new habits (without chasing perfection) and shows how small wins can lead to big changes.

Grab your free Habit Planner here

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:59 The Importance of Developing Habits

01:40 Listener Review and Personal Introduction

02:57 Balancing Responsibilities and Habits

07:24 Understanding the Habit Loop

16:41 Implementing Habit Stacking

23:08 Consistency Over Perfection

26:37 Upcoming Topics and Action Plan

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Resources:

Clear, J. (2018). Atomic habits: An easy & proven way to build good habits & break bad ones. Avery.

Harkin, B., Webb, T. L., Chang, B. P. I., Prestwich, A., Conner, M., Kellar, I., & Sheeran, P. (2016). *Does monitoring goal progress promote goal attainment? A meta-analysis of the experimental evidence.* Psychological Bulletin, 142(2), 198-229.

Lally, P., Van Jaarsveld, C. H., Potts, H. W., & Wardle, J. (2010). *How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world.* European Journal of Social Psychology, 40(6), 998-1009.

Neal, D. T., Wood, W., & Quinn, J. M. (2006). *Habits—A repeat performance.* Current Directions in Psychological Science, 15(4), 198-202.

Wood, W., & Neal, D. T. (2007). *A new look at habits and the habit-goal interface.* Psychological Review, 114(4), 843-863.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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How to Tell If You're a "Good Enough" School Counselor

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Can trying to solve every student problem actually hold them back? Join us as we explore this provocative question, inspired by Donald Winnicott's concept of the "good enough parent.” We'll dissect the instinct to "fix" and consider how stepping back can empower students, helping them build resilience, self-advocacy, and problem-solving skills, ultimately fostering their independence and emotional strength while lightening your workload.

We'll also challenge the unrealistic standards set by the ASCA National Model, questioning whether the relentless pursuit of perfection is truly beneficial. With only 1.1% of schools achieving RAMP status, it's clear that these high bars can create an unsustainable work environment. Instead, we advocate for "good enough school counseling," embracing imperfection and focusing on meaningful, manageable impacts.

00:00 Introduction: The Well-Meaning Instinct of School Counselors

00:41 Empowering Students by Doing Less

01:06 Listener Reviews and Feedback

02:55 The Urge to Fix: A Common Challenge

04:25 The Concept of 'Good Enough' Counseling

07:54 Statistics and Realities of School Counseling

10:45 Sustainable Practices for School Counselors

21:54 The Importance of Empowering Students

22:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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References/Resources:

Clemens, E. V., & Milsom, A. (2008). The school counselor’s role in addressing the mental health needs of students: A model for prevention, intervention, and crisis intervention. Journal of School Counseling, 6(23).

Winnicott, D. W. (1953). Transitional objects and transitional phenomena: A study of the first not-me possession. International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 34, 89–97.

Winnicott, D. W. (1965). The maturational processes and the facilitating environment. London: Hogarth Press.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Hidden Dangers of Toxic Positivity in School Counseling

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Can adopting a positive mindset inadvertently lead to dismissing genuine struggles?

How can we balance a healthy stress mindset without falling into the trap of toxic positivity?

In this episode of the 'School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the complexities of stress management for school counselors. The episode delves into recognizing the difference between a constructive stress mindset and falling into the trap of toxic positivity.

Steph shares strategies for identifying warning signs of burnout, maintaining realistic expectations, and balancing professional efforts with emotional well-being. Listeners are encouraged to adopt mindful self-reflection, understand contextual limits, and seek peer support to sustain a healthy professional mindset.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:33 Understanding Stress Mindset vs. Toxic Positivity

01:45 Listener Reviews and Reflections

03:19 Reinterpreting Stress: A Deeper Dive

05:03 Growth Mindset and Its Pitfalls

08:12 Warning Signs of Toxic Positivity

08:59 Personal Experience with Hustle Culture

19:35 Strategies to Maintain a Healthy Mindset

26:10 Conclusion

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References/Resources:

American School Counselor Association. (2019). The ASCA national model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.). American School Counselor Association.

Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

Tao W, Zhao D, Yue H, Horton I, Tian X, Xu Z and Sun H-J (2022) The Influence of Growth Mindset on the Mental Health and Life Events of College Students. Front. Psychol. 13:821206. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.821206

Tsai, Min-Ying. 2023. Comparing Perfectionism, Cognitive Mindset, Constructive Thinking, and Emotional Intelligence in Gifted Students by Grade and Gender. Social Sciences 12: 233. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/socsci12040233

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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School Counseling Stress: What If We’re Wrong?

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What if stress wasn't your enemy, but your secret weapon? In this enlightening episode, Steph Johnson reveals how school counselors can transform stress from a debilitating burden into a powerful strength. We tackle the overwhelming caseloads, emotional toll, and resource scarcity head-on, offering a fresh perspective supported by robust, peer-reviewed research. Discover how your mindset about stress can radically alter your health outcomes, boost resilience, and promote professional growth. Sound too good to be true? The research says otherwise.

00:00 Understanding School Counseling Stressors

00:39 Introduction and Podcast Welcome

01:01 Exploring Stress Solutions

02:35 Challenging Traditional Views on Stress

03:05 Listener Reviews and Feedback

04:44 Rethinking Stress in School Counseling

07:31 Harnessing Stress for Positive Outcomes

11:59 Practical Strategies for Stress Management

14:40 Research Insights on Stress Mindsets

25:54 Final Thoughts

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References/Resources:

Crum, A. J., Akinola, M., Martin, A., & Fath, S. (2017). The role of stress mindset in shaping cognitive, emotional, and physiological responses to challenging and threatening stress. Anxiety, stress, & coping, 30(4), 379-395.

Crum, A.J., Jamieson, J.P., & Akinola, M. (2020). Optimizing stress: An integrated intervention for regulating stress responses. Emotion, 20(1), 120-125. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/emo0000670

Crum, A. J., Salovey, P., & Achor, S. (2013). Rethinking stress: The role of mindsets in determining the stress response. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 104(4), 716–733. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0031201

Jamieson, J.P., Crum, A.J., Goyer, J.P., Marotta, M.E. & Akinola, M. (2018). Optimizing stress responses with reappraisal and mindset interventions: an integrated model, Anxiety, Stress, & Coping, 31(3), 245-261. DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2018.1442615

Jamieson, J. P., Mendes, W. B., & Nock, M. K. (2013). Improving acute stress responses: The power of reappraisal. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 22(1), 51-56. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721412461500

Keller, A., Litzelman, K., Wisk, L. E., Maddox, T., Cheng, E. R., Creswell, P. D., & Witt, W. P. (2012). Does the perception that stress affects health matter? The association with health and mortality. Health Psychology, 31(5), 677–684. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0026743

Liu JJW, Ein N, Gervasio J, Vickers K (2019) The efficacy of stress reappraisal interventions on stress responsivity: A meta-analysis and systematic review of existing evidence. PLoS ONE 14(2): e0212854. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0212854

Mind & Body Lab. (n.d.). Stress and performance. Stanford University. https://mbl.stanford.edu/stress

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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A Surprising Secret Weapon Against Chronic School Counselor Stress

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and burnt out as a school counselor? Discover game-changing strategies to not only manage- but also thrive- amidst the unique stressors you face daily. Join me, Steph Johnson, on the School for School Counselors Podcast as we navigate the complexities of stress management, especially with the new school year kicking off. We'll discuss the escalating mental health demands post-COVID-19 and how traditional self-care practices may not be cutting it anymore. Learn how to balance your high caseloads with sustainable, actionable measures that protect your well-being and professional effectiveness.

In this episode, we tackle the mismatch between your rising responsibilities and outdated frameworks, highlighting the importance of setting professional boundaries and seeking support. A groundbreaking journal article reshapes our understanding of chronic stress and offers fresh insights into maintaining mental health. This is not just about surviving but thriving in your role as a school counselor—equipped, confident, and ready to meet each day with renewed energy and purpose.

00:00 Welcome Back to the School for School Counselors Podcast

00:25 Exciting Updates and New Beginnings

01:06 Addressing Stress in School Counseling

02:40 Behavior Interventions and Mastermind Group

04:53 Understanding Chronic Stress

07:47 The Impact of Chronic Stress on School Counselors

16:17 Strategies to Mitigate Chronic Stress

23:25 The Importance of Professional Consultation

29:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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References/Resources:

Agyapong, B., Obuobi-Donkor, G., Burback, L., & Wei, Y. (2022). Stress, burnout, anxiety and depression among teachers: a scoping review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(17), 10706.

Liu, Y. Z., Wang, Y. X., & Jiang, C. L. (2017). Inflammation: the common pathway of stress-related diseases. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 11, 273283.

Niles, J. K., Mullen, P. R., Kitching, E., & Schofield, K. (2024). School Counselors’ Hope, Stress, and Job Satisfaction. Professional School Counseling, 28(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X241259487

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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[Bonus Ep.] Are Yours Legit? The Uncomfortable Truth About School Counseling Resources

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In the 114th episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the critical issue of subpar materials flooding the market, especially with the rise of AI-generated resources. She differentiates between "evidence-based" and "evidence-aligned" materials, emphasizing the importance of using thoroughly vetted, peer-reviewed resources, particularly in high-stakes situations. Steph also offers guidance on where to find reliable, evidence-backed resources and advises on how to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of counseling tools.

00:00 Welcome and Podcast Celebration

00:50 The Epidemic of Subpar Counseling Materials

03:47 Understanding Evidence-Based vs. Evidence-Aligned

08:56 High Stakes and Tier Two Interventions

11:48 Becoming a Discerning Consumer

18:26 Finding Reliable Resources

24:09 Conclusion and Invitation

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References/Resources:

American School Counselor Association. (n.d.). Professional School Counseling Journal. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/Publications-Research/Professional-School-Counseling-Journal

Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning. (n.d.). SEL programs. CASEL. Retrieved from https://casel.org/

Education Resources Information Center (ERIC). (n.d.). ERIC - Institute of Education Sciences. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/

U.S. Department of Education. (n.d.). What Works Clearinghouse. Retrieved from https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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[Bonus Ep.] Unlock the Secrets to Sustainable School Counseling

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses ways to make school counseling more sustainable and enjoyable. Steph explores the importance of understanding your 'why', the benefits of tracking your time, the necessity of delegation, the value of effective systems, and the role of building strong relationships with staff. She emphasizes the need to maintain realistic expectations and provides insights on how school counselors can manage their demanding roles without burning out. Join the conversation and learn practical tips to thrive in your school counseling career.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:28 The Importance of Sustainable School Counseling

04:34 Understanding Your 'Why'

08:13 The Role of Data in School Counseling

14:20 The Power of Delegation

16:44 Building Effective Systems

18:45 Fostering Relationships with Staff

20:55 Setting Realistic Expectations

22:38 Conclusion and Support Resources

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Mentioned in This Episode:

SMART School Counseling Assessment: smartschoolcounseling.com

School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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[Bonus Ep.] From Burnout to Brilliance: SMART Secrets for Overwhelmed School Counselors

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the challenges of adhering to the ASCA National Model in imperfect circumstances and introduces the SMART School Counseling Framework. This five-part framework aims to provide actionable steps for school counselors navigating the complexities of real-world school environments.

Additionally, she introduces the free SMART School Counseling Assessment (smartschoolcounseling.com) designed to help counselors identify their next best steps for growth and development. Steph emphasizes the importance of not internalizing program shortfalls and instead endeavoring to do what's best for students within the context of the campus.

00:00 Welcome to the New and Improved Podcast

00:40 Celebrating Our Success

01:38 Introducing a New Idea

03:55 Challenges in Implementing the ASCA National Model

08:59 The Smart School Counseling Framework

18:42 The Smart School Counseling Assessment

21:17 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved

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Mentioned in This Episode:

SMART School Counseling Assessment: smartschoolcounseling.com

School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Dysregulated Adults ≠ Regulated Students

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, Steph Johnson addresses the evolving role of school counselors in behavior intervention on campuses. Steph highlights the growing need for counselors to assist not only students but also staff members, who may unintentionally exacerbate student behaviors. She discusses common challenges, such as teacher dysregulation and its impact on students, and provides actionable strategies for counselors to model emotional regulation, train staff, and offer support without seeming condescending. Steph also touches on the importance of mindfulness and solution-focused conversations for promoting a healthier school environment.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Behavior Intervention in Schools

01:41 Supporting Your Staff

03:57 Understanding Staff Challenges

05:03 Teacher Interaction Styles

13:35 Promoting Emotional Regulation

23:57 The Importance of Support Systems

26:07 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

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References/Resources:

Gregoire, Simon & Lachance, Lise & Taylor, Geneviève. (2015). Mindfulness, mental health and emotion regulation among workers. International Journal of Wellbeing. 5. 96-119. 10.5502/ijw.v5i4.444.

Vollmann M, Schwieren C, Mattern M, Schnell K (2021) Let the team fix it?—Performance and mood of depressed workers and coworkers in different work contexts. PLoS ONE 16(10): e0256553. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0256553

Zerillo, C., & Osterman, K. F. (2011). Teacher perceptions of teacher bullying. Improving schools, 14(3), 239-257.

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Can We Convert "Defiant" Students into Dynamic School Leaders?

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the expanding role of school counselors in behavior intervention, emphasizing the need for a trauma-informed approach. She discusses common concerns counselors have about behavior intervention, including the misconception of equating it to discipline, time constraints, and the fear of being misutilized. Steph urges counselors to rethink their approach by identifying the origins of problematic behavior and addressing systemic issues rather than relying on one-stop solutions. She also highlights the importance of mindful language use and empowering students as peer mentors to foster a supportive school environment. Finally, she introduces the upcoming topics in the podcast and the resources available in the School for School Counselors mastermind group.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome

00:14 The Role of School Counselors in Behavior Intervention

01:29 Challenges and Concerns in Behavior Intervention

02:25 Rethinking Behavior Intervention Strategies

[03:00 Celebrating a Podcast Milestone]

04:02 Addressing the Root Causes of Behavior

08:55 The Power of Language in Behavior Intervention

13:03 Empowering Students as Change Agents

17:27 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Topics

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References/Resources:

McCormick, M. P., Cappella, E., O'Connor, E. E., & McClowry, S. G. (2015). Do Intervention Impacts on Academic Achievement Vary by School Climate? Evidence from a Randomized Trial in Urban Elementary Schools. Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED562123.pdf

Paquette, D. and Ryan, J. (2015). Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. National Dropout Prevention Center. https://dropoutprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/paquetteryanwebquest_20091110.pdf

Wade, L., Leahy, A. A., Babic, M. J., Beauchamp, M. R., Smith, J. J., Kennedy, S. G., ... & Lubans, D. R. (2022). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the benefits of school-based, peer-led interventions for leaders. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 21222.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-25662-9.pdf

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Behavior Intervention Chaos: The Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson discusses the complex role school counselors play in behavior intervention. She highlights the mixed emotions and challenges that come with the start of a new school year and provides insights into common mistakes counselors make when intervening in student behavior.

Key points include the importance of self-regulation, the benefits of limited involvement, and the necessity of focusing on student strengths. Johnson also emphasizes the value of intentional follow-up and offers practical advice to avoid overwhelm and burnout.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:12 Preparing for the New School Year

00:44 The Role of School Counselors in Behavior Intervention

04:59 Common Mistakes in Behavior Intervention

05:24 Belief Fallacies in Behavior Intervention

12:15 Effective Behavior Intervention Strategies

20:07 Upcoming Mastermind Sessions

20:59 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

The Giant Lie School Counselors Tell Every Day

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Navigating the delicate balance of student confidentiality is crucial but complex. In this episode, we tackle real-life scenarios where transparency becomes a necessity, especially in critical situations involving suicidal ideation, self-harm, or legal mandates. We'll discuss the ethical boundaries school counselors must navigate, stressing the importance of clear communication with students about the limits of confidentiality. Plus, the episode delves into the ethical pitfalls and voyeuristic tendencies that can arise, urging professionals to refine their skills and ensure the best interests of their students are always prioritized.

Managing confidentiality effectively is at the heart of professional school counseling. We'll explore the risks of certain practices and the importance of critically analyzing and communicating confidentiality guidelines to avoid misunderstandings.

Mentioned in this episode:
American School Counselor Association. (2016). ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/44b6a9a9-84ff-47e3-baa7-ccb78c9a6567/Ethical-Standards.pdf

U.S. Department of Education. (2021). Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group
Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind
The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Forget "Comprehensive" School Counseling

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to the School for School Counselors Podcast! In this episode, Steph Johnson dives deep into the often unrealistic expectations placed on school counselors. After wrapping up the wildly successful "Best Year Ever!" event, Steph shares her heart and wisdom from the final night of the extravaganza, emphasizing the need for a strong foundation rather than more tactics.

Too often, school counselors are bombarded with the ideal of achieving a "perfect" or "comprehensive" program, feeling like failures when they can't meet all the earmarks. Steph passionately argues that this perception is unfair and unrealistic, given the diverse and challenging environments counselors work in. She highlights the importance of recognizing the true value of our work and the significant impacts we make, even without all the accolades.

Tune in to hear about the SMART School Counseling Assessment, a unique tool designed to help you assess and appreciate your progress without the pressure of meeting every benchmark. Discover how you can redefine success in your role and find satisfaction and pride in your daily efforts.

Whether you're struggling with limited resources, lack of administrative support, or just the sheer volume of work, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to navigate these challenges and feel empowered in your career. Join us as we celebrate the meaningful contributions you make every day and remind ourselves that success isn't about perfection—it's about making a difference where we are.

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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TPT's Dirty Truths & Why You Need an Evidence-Base

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ever wondered why some school counseling programs deliver long-lasting results while others fall flat? In this episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, host Steph Johnson addresses the critical need for evidence-based practices in the field of school counseling.

Though counselor-created resources are popular, Johnson emphasizes the importance of moving beyond these kinds of resources commonly found online. She discusses the insufficiency of peer-reviewed research in current school counseling interventions and offers reliable alternatives such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and established curriculums like Second Step and MindUP.

Additionally, Johnson highlights the potential harm of inadequately researched resources found on platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers. She provides practical advice on where to find validated interventions and underscores the value of collecting long-term data to assess their effectiveness.

If you truly want to be a better school counselor, listen in for actionable insights to elevate your school counseling practices, backed by the power of evidence-based approaches that truly make a difference in students' lives.

Mentioned in This Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Resources:

American School Counselor Association (2019). ASCA school
counselor professional standards & competencies. Alexandria,
VA: Author. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/a8d59c2c-51de-4ec3-a565-a3235f3b93c3/SC-Competencies.pdf

American School Counselor Association. (2021). ASCA student standards: Mindsets & behaviors for student success. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7428a787-a452-4abb-afec-d78ec77870cd/mindsets-behaviors.pdf

Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://casel.org/

Committee for Children. (n.d.). Second Step program. Retrieved from https://www.secondstep.org/

Gallagher, C., Swalwell, K., & Bellows, L. (2019). Editorial processes and quality control in educational materials. Educational Studies, 48(1), 112-128.

Kendall, P. C. (1990). Coping Cat program for anxiety disorders. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 19(2), 99-107.

MacArthur, J., Harris, L., Archonbald, N., & Shelton, K. (2021). Findings on the quality of activities in educational resources. Journal of Educational Research, 54(3), 245-262.

National Association of School Psychologists. (n.d.). Professional development. Retrieved from https://www.nasponline.org/professional-development

Sawyer, R., Dick, M., & Sutherland, J. (2020). The correlation between resource aesthetics and cognitive demand. Mathematics Education Review, 62(4), 301-318.

The Goldie Hawn Foundation. (n.d.). MindUP curriculum. Retrieved from https://mindup.org/

U.S. Department of Education. (n.d.). What Works Clearinghouse. Retrieved from https://ies

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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How to Cue Yourself for Better School Counseling

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

How can understanding the "why" behind your practices truly transform your school counseling program? This week, we uncover the secrets to setting yourself up for sustainable success. Steph Johnson guides us through the nuances of human nature and brain functionality, offering practical strategies for establishing effective habits and practices in your school counseling program.

Inspired by James Clear's "Atomic Habits," we break down sustainable habits into four essential components: cue, craving, response, and reward. Listen as we share actionable tips to make new behaviors obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying—especially when it comes to gratitude. With small, manageable changes, you can build consistent habits that support a successful school year. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to habit-building that promises to transform your professional school counseling practice.

Mentioned in This Episode:
BEST YEAR EVER!!!
Modern School Counselor Planner
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Resources:

Clear, J. (2018). Atomic habits: An easy & proven way to build good habits & break bad ones. Avery.

Gardner, B., Lally, P., & Wardle, J. (2012). Making health habitual: The psychology of ‘habit-formation’ and general practice. British Journal of General Practice, 62(605), 664-666. https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp12X659466

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

The Mastermind is packed with all the things your grad program never taught you IN ADDITION TO unparalleled support and consultation. No more feeling alone, invisible, unappreciated, or like you just don't know what to do next. We've got you!

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Secret to Sustaining Your Passion for School Counseling

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What can keep your motivation and drive burning bright all through the school year? Join us as we uncover how integrating gratitude into your daily practice can reduce stress, boost emotional resilience, and foster a collaborative, positive atmosphere on campus. As we transition into the new academic year, we'll share insights on how gratitude can be your secret weapon to maintaining positivity during challenging times.

Mentioned in This Episode:
BEST YEAR EVER!!!
Modern School Counselor Planner
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Resources:
Bono, G., Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2004). Gratitude in practice and the practice of gratitude. Positive Psychology in Practice, 464-481.

Chan, D. W. (2010). Gratitude, gratitude intervention and subjective well-being among Chinese school teachers in Hong Kong. Educational Psychology, 30(2), 139-153.

Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377-389.

Wood, A. M., Froh, J. J., & Geraghty, A. W. (2010). Gratitude and well-being: A review and theoretical integration. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(7), 890-905.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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4 Key Components School Counselors Need for an Amazing School Year

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What if you could transform your school counseling program into a haven of organization and efficiency that instantly puts students- and you- at ease? This week on the School for School Counselors Podcast, I'm sharing the four critical components you must consider in preparing your school counseling program for success in the the new school year.

From the must-have supplies every counselor should keep on hand to smart tips for curating your materials, you'll learn how to create a welcoming yet streamlined environment. Plus, I'll guide you on the key documents and checklists you need at your fingertips to respond efficiently to any situation.

We'll also talk through the often-overlooked world of data systems, the importance of a reliable record-keeping system, and how vital a solid roster tracking system is for comprehensive student support. Finally, we'll touch on the importance of your professional mindset, remaining patient and staying flexible in the face of unexpected challenges or slow-to-change campuses.

Mentioned in This Episode:
BEST YEAR EVER!!!
School Counselor Must-Haves Guide
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Research-Based School Counseling Spaces: Does Yours Make the Grade?

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Can the design of your school counseling office really impact student well-being and performance? Join me, Steph Johnson, on the School for School Counselors Podcast as we unpack the essentials of creating a functional and calming counseling space. Drawing from both personal experiences and cutting-edge research, I guide you through the journey of setting up an environment that will not only support your students but also help you stay focused and calm. Whether you are a new counselor setting up your first office or a seasoned professional looking to refresh your space, you'll find practical advice that can make a significant difference in student engagement.

Throughout this episode, we emphasize the importance of intentionality in designing your space, highlighting how clutter can negatively impact focus and anxiety levels. Discover the unique role of school counselors in fostering a regulated environment, distinct from regular classrooms, and learn how to advocate for your true role amidst the challenges of being assigned non-counseling duties. We share inspiring stories and actionable steps to make your counseling office a sanctuary for student support. Plus, don't miss the chance to hear more about our Best Year Ever event coming soon!

Mentioned in This Episode:
BEST YEAR EVER!!!
School Counselor Must-Haves Guide

Resources:

Barrett, P., Zhang, Y., Davies, F., & Barrett, L. (2015). The impact of classroom design on pupils' learning: Final results of a holistic, multi-level analysis. Building and Environment, 89, 118-133. doi:10.1016/j.buildenv.2015.02.013

Cheryan, S., Ziegler, S. A., Plaut, V. C., & Meltzoff, A. N. (2014). Designing classrooms to maximize student achievement. Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 1(1), 4-12. doi:10.1177/2372732214548677

Evertson, C. M., & Weinstein, C. S. (2006). Classroom management as a field of inquiry. In C. M. Evertson & C. S. Weinstein (Eds.), Handbook of Classroom Management: Research, Practice, and Contemporary Issues (pp. 3-15). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Fisher, A. V., Godwin, K. E., & Seltman, H. (2014). Visual environment, attention allocation, and learning in young children: When too much of a good thing may be bad. Psychological Science, 25(7), 1362-1370. doi:10.1177/0956797614533801

Hamre, B. K., & Pianta, R. C. (2005). Can instructional and emotional support in the first-grade classroom make a difference for children at risk of school failure? Child Development, 76(5), 949-967. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8624.2005.00889.x

Martin, S. H. (2002). The classroom environment and its effects on the practice of teachers. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 22(1-2), 139-156. doi:10.1006/jevp.2001.0239

Tanner, C. K. (2009). Effects of school design on student outcomes. Journal of Educational Administration, 47(3), 381-399. doi:10.1108/09578230910955809

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counse

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Is it Time to Eliminate Some Joy from School Counseling?

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

So many of us need to "eliminate some Joy" from our roles. What can this mean for school counselors who strive to build positivity, growth mindset, and can-do attitudes throughout campus?

This week, we're taking a cue from the movie Inside Out and talking about how constantly being the go-to "fixers" on campus can lead to burnout. We discuss how the inability to distinguish ourselves from perpetual "Joys" takes an immense emotional toll, and why high expectations from students, parents, and staff can push counselors to the brink of exhaustion. What can we do to redefine our roles for healthier, more sustainable environments?

You'll hear:

The emotional toll of always being the "fixer"
How empowering the entire school community can reduce "Joy"
Practical tips for maintaining a balanced workload

Listen for practical insights and real-world tips that will help you reclaim your energy, focus on what truly matters, and thrive in your counseling role!

Resources/Citations:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
(Free) Modern School Counselor Planner

Claro, S., Paunesku, D., & Dweck, C. S. (2016). Growth mindset tempers the effects of poverty on academic achievement. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 113(31), 8664-8668. doi:10.1073/pnas.1608207113

Friedman, R. S., & Förster, J. (2005). Effects of Motivational Cues on Perceptual Asymmetry: Implications for Creativity and Analytical Problem Solving. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 88(2), 263–275. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.88.2.263

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Screaming Goats and Sand Trays: Unique Stories of Real-World School Counseling

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In the 100th episode of the School for School Counselors podcast, we are all about the colorful and often unexpected world of school counseling with stories from school counselors who are in the trenches every day. One counselor from Kentucky shares about her handmade wooden sand tray, a favorite among her students for its soothing qualities. Another from Georgia uses a screaming goat toy to break the tension and get a laugh out of students during stressful moments. These personal touches not only make their offices a little more welcoming but also offer unique ways to connect with students.

As the conversation unfolds, more counselors chime in with their favorite tools and methods. From a tabletop punching bag in an elementary school to a life-sized cutout of The Rock used for student greetings and school events in Southern California, each story highlights the creativity and personalization that counselors bring to their roles. These stories underline the episode's core message: school counseling isn't just about following guidelines and filling out forms—it's about the real, meaningful interactions that help students navigate their school days.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Why One School Counselor Chose Schools Over Therapy Offices

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What if the place where students spend most of their time held the key to unlocking their potential? Meet Kristina Renn, a first-year school counselor who almost became a clinical therapist but found her true calling in school counseling. Kristina joins us to share her practical approach to creating positive changes within the school environment. She highlights the profound impact school counselors can have, especially when support like parental involvement and mental health resources are lacking. With candid insights into dealing with isolation and high caseloads, Kristina's journey showcases the dedication and resilience needed to make a real difference in students' lives.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

How Do You Handle Student Info When You're Leaving?

Mon, 27 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Are you preparing to leave your school counseling position and unsure about what documentation to leave for your successor? Navigating the complexities of student privacy and legal compliance is crucial for school counselors. In this episode, we dive into the essentials of managing student notes and records, giving you the confidence to adhere to FERPA regulations while maintaining the confidentiality your students rely on.

Think of this episode as your toolkit for identifying and balancing memory aids versus documentation. We explore the CARE acronym—Consider, Align, Review Records, and Empower—a practical framework to help you navigate information transfers. Discover how to communicate effectively with stakeholders, align with the ASCA National Model and FERPA, manage documentation securely, and empower your successors with the right information, all while protecting student privacy. Join us for this insightful discussion, and enhance your practice with the skills to handle student records with integrity and care.

Mentioned in this episode:

ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Stone, Carolyn. (2022). School counseling principles: Ethics and law. 5th ed. American School Counselor Association.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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I Blew Up My School Counseling Data: What I Learned

Mon, 20 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this week’s episode, I’ll take you through my real-life experience of being compelled to overhaul my data systems due to recent legislative changes in Texas—a process that unfortunately did not go very well.

It’s been quite a journey with some big adjustments I had to make in my data collection methods. However, despite the setbacks, the lessons I learned have been invaluable.

I’ll share what I learned and was reminded of regarding the secret weapon of straightforward data habits, the importance of selecting effective tools, and the power that comes from purpose in data collection.

As the school year comes to an end, let’s look back on our achievements and prepare for a future where data supports and enhances our counseling programs. Together, we’ll learn not just to collect data, but to harness its full potential for the betterment of our programs. Let's do this!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Want to Make a Real Difference? Be Like Nancy.

Mon, 13 May 2024 16:00:00 -0500

Nancy is an experienced and stellar school counselor whose story is as inspiring as it is instructive. Her path from art teacher to guiding light for students spans over three decades, and in this episode, we walk through the trajectory of Nancy's career, from the day her father suggested looking into a masters degree to the present, where she works through innovative programs like Ohio's College Credit Plus to reshape student opportunities firsthand. Nancy's career is an inspiration for anyone who believes in the transformative power of dedicated school counselors.

Nancy believes in investing in her students and meeting them in their realities to inspire hope and incite change on a campus where many of her students face more than their fair share of challenges. We talk about the delicate art of supporting dreams, the realities of the working poor, and the critical need for resources and camaraderie among educators. Join us for an episode that not only celebrates the impact of school counselors but also serves as a reminder that what we do is crucial- and life-changing- for students.

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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From Underwater Crime Scene Investigator to School Counseling Superstar

Mon, 06 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Ginger Bernal for a friendly chat about her fascinating 17-year journey through the world of education. Ginger started her professional life in the unexpected waters of underwater crime scene investigation before finding her true calling in school counseling. She shares heartwarming stories, like how she helped a mother of seven go from pursuing her GED to becoming a certified nursing assistant, illustrating the life-changing impact of dedicated school counselors.

Ginger dives into the nuts and bolts of working within educational systems, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and building strong relationships with school administrators. Her insights offer a wealth of knowledge on how to advocate for necessary programs and gain the support needed to make a real difference. We also get into how school counselors can maintain their professional sanity by using the right tools and systems to balance productivity with passion.

Looking ahead, Ginger discusses the exciting potential of data and technology in shaping the future of school counseling. She offers practical tips on using digital tools to streamline schedules and how well-structured lesson plans can enhance student engagement. The conversation wraps up with a powerful note on the personal qualities that make school counseling both challenging and rewarding—patience, intentionality, and grace.

Join us for this inspiring episode that not only highlights the profound influence of school counselors but also leaves you feeling empowered to make a lasting impact in your own sphere.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The End-of-Year Conversation Every School Counselor Needs to Hear

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

It's time to end the school year on a high note while supporting a stronger partnership with your campus principal. This week’s School for School Counselors podcast offers strategies for school counselors to navigate end-of-year conversations with precision and grace without alienating administrators.

We talk through how to craft success stories from your collected data to highlight growth opportunities during end-of-year chats with your principal. I guide you through your conversation prep so you can remain intentional, even as you head toward the relaxed vibes of summer. And we dissect how to receive feedback with a professional detachment that shields your passion for work from the sting of criticism.

Take a moment to listen, reflect on your accomplishments, and gear up for those final conversations with your administrator. Let’s set the stage for an even more impactful school year next year!

Supporting resources for this episode:

Jordan, C. (2022). Developing Productive School Counselor–Principal Partnerships. Professional School Counseling, 26(1c). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X221134669

Google Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FDmbmH3joYGv_lHvlDozJ_YmdR_ydhVyRp1-6S9iWQ8/copy

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Renewed Purpose for the Weary School Counselor

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

As we near the end of the school year, it's easy to feel so, so TIRED. How do we power through the rest of the school year while maintaining our sense of purpose and joy for the work we do each day? It's a heavy topic, but an important one.

In this episode, I'll share my own end-of-year challenges, the things we can do to reset our mindset, and the approaches we can take to recapture our hope and purpose in our work, despite our current circumstances.

If you're due for some mental clarity or rejuvenation of spirit, this episode just might do the trick.

Supporting resources for this episode:

Fernández, T., Malvar Méndez, M., & Varela Tembra, J. (2023). Emotional competence profile in secondary school counselors: controversy or need? Front. Educ., 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2023.1277638

Wahyuni, F., Wiyono, B., Atmoko, A., & Hambali, I. (2019). Assessing Relationships between emotional intelligence, school climate and school counselor burnout: A structural equation model. Journal for the Education of Gifted Young
Scientists, 7(4), 1361-1374.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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From Flute to Fatigues to Futures: One School Counselor's Symphony of Service

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I highlight a fascinating conversation with Elizabeth Janners, a school counselor with a super-cool blend of music and military service in her background. Listen in to hear how Elizabeth's background shapes her unique approach to mentoring the next generation, offering invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability as she guides students through life's challenges.

Elizabeth's story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of personal growth, and how combining various life experiences can lead to a fulfilling career that has the potential to positively impact the lives of others. Don't miss this insightful discussion that also highlights the importance of trauma-informed practices in education and how life and art can intersect to create powerful school counseling perspectives.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Who's REALLY Driving? My (Very) Raw Take on School Counseling Challenges

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ever felt like you're juggling the workloads of four people, expected to perform seamlessly in all of them? Buckle up and join me from my car's front seat where I get real about where we stand in the school counseling profession, including the unsustainable pace we're expected to maintain and the systemic issues that often leave us feeling like we're set up for failure. The good news? Falling short may not be your fault- listen to find out why.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Marathon Resilience: Overcoming Challenges in Rural School Counseling

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Do you feel like you're running an 'unwinnable race' this time of the school year? In this episode, Steph provides an excerpt of her recent keynote speech for the Lone Star State School Counselor Association Rural Route School Counselors Conference to highlight the importance of self-care, setting achievable goals, and the profound impact counselors have on their students' lives.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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From the Classroom to the School Counselors’ Office: Katie Tells All

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This is such a fun episode! Getting started on a new career path can often be a leap of faith, and this story is a shining example of where such a leap can land you. Meet Katie—a former teacher and current grad student who has discovered her true calling in the school counselors' office. Led to develop a meaningful and student-centered school counseling program amidst multiple natural disasters and a global pandemic, Katie speaks from the heart about her journey, her challenges, her triumphs, and ultimately- her goals for the future.

Whether you're an aspiring school counselor, new school counselor, or a seasoned pro, Katie will leave you feeling inspired and energized for your work with students.

Resources:
Hudgens, Molly. (2020). Saving Sycamore: The school shooting that never happened. Dave Burgess Consulting.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Empathy in Action: Using Collaborative Problem-Solving in School Counseling

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Today's episode considers the legendary "spring fever" in schools, where escalating tensions and stress impact both students and teachers. We unpack the collaborative problem-solving approach credited to Ross Green that seeks to strengthen students' abilities in areas often overlooked – from emotion regulation to social skills – rather than pointing fingers at motivation levels or parenting styles. And we're here to shine a light on the five pathways that can make or break a student's ability to cope and thrive.

Get ready to learn about a path forward that emphasizes empathy, equips students with essential life skills, and creates a shared space for resolving conflicts, ultimately reducing classroom meltdowns and fostering a more harmonious learning environment.

Resources:
Lives in the Balance
Think:Kids
Greene, R. W. (1998). Lost at school: Why our kids with behavioral challenges are falling through the cracks and how we can help them. Scribner.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Some of the Best School Counseling Advice I've Ever Heard

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm joined by by friend Jessica Neitsch who talks about her simple yet effective strategy for maintaining our feeling of purpose and satisfaction in our work, how to approach emotional management for educators and students alike, and the need to celebrate the small victories that, moment by moment, build a fulfilling career in school counseling. If the spring semester is feeling long and challenging, this is the encouragement you've been needing: listen in for some of the best school counseling advice I think I've ever heard.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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A Game-Changing Mentorship Model for Students

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

When life throws you curveballs, it's the ones who knock them out of the park that inspire us the most. Lydia Larimore did just that, turning a disheartening remark from her own school counselor into a fire that fueled her rise as an innovative educator and a Virginia Department of Education Difference Maker. On our show, host Steph Johnson takes a deep dive into Lydia’s transformative journey, from leveraging her logistics and MBA background to revolutionize attendance at a Title I school, to instilling in her students the confidence to recognize the power of their voices. Lydia's story isn't just about overcoming odds; it's a beacon for anyone in the educational field, proving that with determination and a growth mindset, the impact of a dedicated school counselor can be immeasurable.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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My Personal List: Four Critical Questions for Behavior Intervention

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

So many of you feel like you are being used as firemen right now, running from one fire to the next, trying to put out the biggest flames. This week, I share the four critical questions that I ask any teacher who flags me down for behavior assistance, why these four questions are so important, and how to facilitate these conversations without causing a rift in your professional relationships.

If you're overwhelmed with behavior response right now, this could be a game-changer for you.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Fundamental Supports for Successful Behavior Intervention

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Ever found yourself in the middle of behavioral chaos, wondering where it all went wrong? In this episode, we create a "cheat sheet" for initial behavior intervention with strategies to support students without pulling them away from the classroom prematurely.

Mentioned in this episode:
ChildMind Institute's Hierarchy of Behavioral Techniques

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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A New Perspective on Kindness in School Counseling

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

How can we effectively educate kids with mental health or basic well-being concerns? Carissa, a former teacher, current school counselor and mental health therapist, says it's not realistic. Students can't learn if they aren't regulated and works to be her best self for her students by remembering her goal of helping rather than "fixing"- guiding her students toward resilience and self-reliance.

Carissa shares her strategies that keep her grounded and effective while balancing a demanding workload and unrelenting needs with the realities of too little time. Our conversation brings to light an overlooked aspect of school counseling: Are we being as kind to ourselves as we are teaching our students to be?

She also shares a SUPER-SUCCESSFUL initiative that would be PERFECT for Random Acts of Kindness Week or anytime your campus & community could use a little extra encouragement.

It's easy to dream big, but Carissa reminds us that starting small and gradually building up while being kind and remembering to care for ourselves is the key to sustainable and impactful programs.

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And for a bit of excitement, we've got a giveaway that's all about celebrating the hard work of school counselors—without adding to their plate. Tune in to find out how to win a treasure trove of resources tailor-made for YOU: the school counseling heroes that guide our students each and every day.
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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School Counseling Leadership Revolution, Part II: How to Truly Make It Happen

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Imagine a career where every interaction is an opportunity for growth, understanding, and connection. That's the vision I'm casting in this episode, as we talk through the "what-to-do's" of social emotional leadership in the world of school counseling. I'm unpacking the art of leading by example, drawing upon the wisdom of Bowers, Lemberger-Truelove, & Brigman (2017) to showcase how you can put social-emotional leadership into place through affiliative, visionary and democratic behaviors to create a DYNAMITE school counseling program.

Join me to dream and scheme toward an educational world where every school counselor is empowered to lead, inspire, and create change through the power of relationships.

Reference:
Bowers, H., Lemberger-Truelove, M. E., & Brigman, G. (2017). A social-emotional leadership framework for school counselors. Professional School Counseling, 21(1b). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X18773004

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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School Counseling Leadership Revolution! How to Build Influence and Inspire Change

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Discover how to elevate your influence on campus as we explore a leadership framework for school counselors proposed by Bowers, Lemberger-Truelove, & Brigman (2017). We'll look at the leadership dispositions that can transform school counselors into agents of change, promoting an environment where both students and staff can thrive.

Reference:
Bowers, H., Lemberger-Truelove, M. E., & Brigman, G. (2017). A social-emotional leadership framework for school counselors. Professional School Counseling, 21(1b). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X18773004

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Get the Job!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The School Counseling Temptations No One Talks About

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Navigating ethical pitfalls and maintaining professionalism isn't just a part of our job - it's at the heart of our mission as school counselors.

This episode takes a hard look at the delicate dance between best, ethical practices and the pressures that tempt us to bend or overstep our boundaries.

This is the stuff few people talk about: the emotional complexities that come with truly investing in our students' lives. You'll hear firsthand how to balance empathy with professionalism, personal connection with necessary distance, productivity versus rigidity, and why it's crucial to know when to reach out for additional resources and support when things start to feel dicey.

All school counselors need to join this down-to-earth conversation about the stuff we don't always talk about but face every day.

It's a reminder that in our journeys as school counselors, knowing when to ask for support is a strength, not a weakness.

Together, we can navigate the complexities and keep our focus on being there for our students in the absolute best way possible.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Hidden Art of Building Meaningful School Counseling Programs

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Faster isn't always better, and "more" doesn't always hit the mark. That's what we're talking about in this episode, where the art of patience isn't just a personal virtue, it's also a very smart professional strategy.

If it feels like it's taking forever to get your campus on the right track, it might help to know that embracing the slow and steady approach in building your school counseling program, despite the world's push for quick fixes, can lead to a more authentic and impactful development of counseling services in your school. Recognizing the benefits of scarcity, too, remind us that a program doesn't need to be "perfect" to be significant.

Are you stuck in a cycle of feeling like you're not doing enough, fast enough, or don't have enough of what you need in your school counseling program?

Tune in for an episode that promises to nurture your patience and strengthen your resolve in a world that tests us in both.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
New Year (re)Start
Get the Job!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Do You Know Your School Counseling Blind Spots?

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Hey there! Ever thought about how your own thoughts and blind spots might be shaping how you connect with others at work? In this latest episode, we're taking a close look at some tricky stuff that can trip up even the most experienced counselors: confirmation biases.

We're exploring how confirmation biases work as sneaky blind spots in school counseling, subtly guiding decisions and interactions as counselors lean towards information that aligns with their existing beliefs.

We'll explore the ins and outs of how our biases can affect our relationships with students, our colleagues, and our campuses as a whole. I'll share some cool strategies to shake off those biases and make our schools more inclusive and awesome places to learn.

Tune in for a chat that'll get you thinking and arm you with the tools for caring and effective counseling, all while maintaining a positive and empowered perspective. Can't wait for you to join the conversation!

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
New Year (re)Start
Get the Job!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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8 Magic Bullets for Making Your Spring Semester Easier & Less Stressful

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Right now, people are busy talking about resolutions, goals, mindset, words of the year, etc., for the New Year.

In this episode, we're not going to get into any of that! Instead, we'll walk through a very specific step by step process for making sure that you have all of the little tedious things (and the little things that jump up and bite you in the rear later on in the school year) handled. Our New Year (re)Start will help you feel confident, prepared and less stressed for the rest of your school year.

Let's raise a toast to new beginnings, to working smarter, and to doing an awesome job at taking care of our own well-being as we work to support students and families.

Mentioned in this epsiode:
New Year (re)Start
School for School Counselors Planner- free
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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From Guilt to Wellness: Redefining Effective School Counseling

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Feeling overwhelmed as a school counselor? Ever get the feeling that no matter how much you've accomplished, it's never enough? I get it! (I've been there, too.)

In this episode, I talk about the taboo issue of productivity guilt, a common- yet unaddressed- concern that affects lots of hardworking educators like us. I explain just what productivity guilt is and why we often feel this way, paying particular attention to heavy caseloads, high expectations, and the ceaseless demands of our roles.

School counselors, it's time for a change where we redefine productivity and prioritize our wellbeing. Let's talk about how to combat productivity guilt, how to hold boundaries, and how to gain confidence in our capabilities to feel fulfilled in our work each day.

Despite what your current role may want you to believe, taking a break or cultivating think-time in your day doesn't mean you're weak or lazy; it's an essential part of being a successful school counselor. Join me as we tackle productivity guilt once and for all.

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Are You a Reactive or Responsive School Counselor?

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 22:00:00 -0600

Do you feel like a first responder, constantly reacting issues as they arise, or do you feel like you have the time and space to proactively plan for student wellness? This episode is a deep dive into the realities of reactive versus responsive school counseling. You'll be able to reflect on your daily tasks and learn why your situation, whether it's putting out fires or strategically planning, is more about your school environment than your personal capabilities, and how you can begin modifying your approaches bit by bit to regain a sense of purpose and clarity in your work.

No matter your circumstances, it's possible to identify small but powerful changes that can be made in your counseling program to help you transition from reactive to responsive approaches without neglecting your moment-to-moment responsibilities. It's time to reduce stress and begin building a future-thinking school counseling program: this episode will tell you how.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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80-20 School Counseling Mandates: Not Quite the "Win" We Expected

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:00:00 -0600

Are you grappling with 80-20 expectations? Do you feel the pressure of tracking every minute of your day while managing a huge caseload?

In theory, the idea of 80-20 is good, where 80% of counseling services directly impact students, with the remaining 20% of efforts supporting these services. However, a recent 80-20 mandate shows the complexities of its real-world implementation, the hurdles encountered by counselors, and the unsettling realities that have emerged.

This episode further discusses the expectation for school counselors to log their time usage, leading to concerns about overwork and perceptions of underperformance. As part of this, we highlight the crucial role of advocacy at both state and national levels and explore the potential power of social media as a tool for raising your voice.

Listen now to become better informed- and ready for advocacy!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Cycle of Role Dysfunction in School Counseling

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Are you feeling overwhelmed in your role as a school counselor, perpetually stuck in a cycle where the better your perform, the more you're given to do? You could be caught in a cycle of role dysfunction, and you're definitely not alone.

This episode is a heartfelt deep-dive discussion about these challenges, and how to tackle the emotional labor, compassion fatigue, and general misunderstandings about the function of a school counselor head on.

Mentioned in this episode:

School for School Counselors Mastermind

No-Stress Self-Care Challenge

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Self-Care Myth: Setting the Record Straight for School Counselors

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0600

You know that self-care is not about transforming you into an eternally cheerful person and erasing all life's challenges.

It's high time we dismantle unrealistic expectations around self-care. In this episode's candid discussion, we delve into why self-care may sometimes feel like a burden rather than a blessing, particularly in our demanding profession.

We also explore our own love-hate relationship with self-care and share personal insights on what truly works for us as school counselors within the context or micro- and macro-self care, molding our self-care strategies to our own personal circumstances and life stages.

Buckle up for an honest, insightful dialogue on self-care, its realities, and its undeniable importance in our lives as school counselors.

Mentioned in this episode:

School for School Counselors Mastermind

No-Stress Self-Care Challenge

Resource:
Jennings, P. A., Brown, J. L., Frank, J. L., Doyle, S., Oh, Y., Davis, R., Rasheed, D., DeWeese, A., DeMauro, A. A., Cham, H., & Greenberg, M. T. (2017, February 13). Impacts of the CARE for Teachers Program on Teachers’ Social and Emotional Competence and Classroom Interactions. Journal of Educational Psychology. Advance online publication.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/edu0000187
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Are Your School Counseling Approaches Really Best Practice?

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Ever been swayed by a viewpoint on the Internet only to discover it's not... quite right? You're not alone! In this episode, we take a critical look at how social media algorithms can channel us into echo chambers, potentially leading us astray- especially in specialized fields like school counseling. We'll share strategies on distinguishing the good from the bad, and how to make informed decisions that truly benefit your students.

We'll also get real about the idea of collaboration and safe spaces in school counseling. We'll unpack the difference between mere venting and productive collaboration. And we'll also share some tips on how to critically analyze information for its reliability. Remember, a school counselor is as strong as their network: we invite you to build strong relationships with colleagues, join a consultative group or even become a part of our very own School For School Counselors Mastermind. Together, we can navigate (mis)information overload and make a true difference in our students' lives.

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Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

School for School Counselors Podcast Episode: "What You're Doing Wrong With Separation Anxiety (And Why It's Not Your Fault!)"

Resources:
Bessi, A. (2017). On the statistical properties of viral misinformation in online social media. Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, 469, 459-470. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physa.2016.11.012

Chen, X., Sin, S.J., Theng, Y. & Lee, C.S. (2015). Why do social media users share misinformation? In Proceedings of the 15th ACM/IEEE-CS Joint Conference on Digital Libraries (JCDL '15). Association for Computing Machinery, New York, NY: 111–114. https://doi.org/10.1145/2756406.2756941

Muhammed T, S., Mathew, S.K. The disaster of misinformation: a review of research in social media. Int J Data Sci Anal 13, 271–285 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41060-022-00311-6

Paulson, L. R., Casile, W. J., & Jones, D. (2015). Tech it out: Implementing an online peer consultation network for rural mental health professionals. Journal of Rural Mental Health, 39(3-4), 125–136. https://doi.org/10.1037/rmh0000034

Wu, L., Morstatter, F., Carley, K.M. & Liu, H. (2019). Misinformation in social media: Definition, manipulation, and detection. SIGKDD Explor. Newsl., 21(2), 80–90. https://doi.org/10.1145/3373464.3373475

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Jump in, ask questions, sha

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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From Ordinary to Awesome: Exploring the Habits of Amazing School Counselors

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Can you imagine waking up to a world where every school counselor felt empowered through eight collective habits? We're exploring two of those important habits in this episode (and tell you how to access the others!) to not only give you a boost of confidence and inspiration, but to also give you a taste of our live events where we get real about the trials, tribulations, and triumphs in school counseling.

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Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors (register to grab the replay links)

hello@schoolforschoolcounselors.com

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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What's The Most Important Thing in School Counseling?

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What if the secret to success as a school counselor lies not just in your professional expertise? In this episode, I'll walk you through what I- and many experts in our field- have pegged as the Most Important Thing in school counseling.

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Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Cholewa, B., Goodman-Scott, E., Thomas, A., & Cook, J. (2016). Teachers’ perceptions and experiences consulting with school counselors: A qualitative study. Professional School Counseling, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.5330/1096-2409-20.1.77

Galassi, John P. & Akos, P. (2008). Strengths-based school counseling. Routledge.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Taming the Storm: School Counselors' Guide to October

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Are you feeling the October pressure, school counselor? It's time to pause, breathe, and join us in a conversation that navigates all of October's school counseling stressors.

We're all battling escalating behavioral issues while watching the stress levels rise on our campuses.

But remember, heroes don't have to walk alone.

In this candid episode, we delve into the 'hero complex', the all-too-real sources of our professional anxieties, and the unique solutions that are right in front of us.

Love your work. Even in October. ;)

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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How Do You Create a Functional and Feasible Behavior Intervention Plan?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Ever wondered how to navigate the labyrinth-like process of behavior intervention plans in a school setting? Buckle up as we unravel this intricate process - from gathering real-world data to conducting functional behavior assessments and setting crystal clear, attainable goals. Along the way, you'll gain valuable insights into the uphill task of engaging fellow educators in this journey.

But that's not all! We venture further into the heart of the matter as we address the crucial task of deploying evidence-based interventions as we work to match the function of the behavior to the intervention, creating and utilizing a consistent plan across various settings, and closely monitoring the student's progress and revising the plan as required.

If the word "BIP" makes you cringe, you owe it to yourself to take a listen to this episode.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Additional Resources:
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)- EBP Brief Packet

Functional Behavioral Assessment: Identifying the Reasons for Problem Behavior and Developing a Behavior Plan (IRIS Center, Vanderbilt University

PBIS World: Tiered Interventions

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Fine Lines and Touchy Conversations: Differentiating School Counseling and Behavior Intervention

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Ever felt overwhelmed and feel like more of a behavior interventionist than a true school counselor? Are you unsure about your role in this critical area on campus?

In this episode, we dive into the vital distinction between school counseling and behavior intervention. We talk about how as counselors, our main focus should be on prevention, guidance, and support while underlining our need to collaborate effectively with behavior intervention personnel and school psychologists.

We also tackle the notion of establishing respect and acknowledgment for your expertise as a school counselor, as well as the much-needed time and apace to help foster a positive school environment.

We round it all out with some suggestions and talking points for these critical advocacy conversations.

This episode is a must-listen if you've ever struggled with defining your role in your campus's behavior intervention program.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Behavior Intervention for School Counselors: Mastering the Chaos

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

As a school counselor, you are expected to be the calm amidst the chaos- but sometimes interventions and deescalation can begin to feel frustrating or overwhelming- especially if they just keep coming! This from-the-heart conversation aims to arm you with the tools and perspectives needed to manage behavior intervention, without losing sight of your mission or your sanity. When behaviors seem to be escalating earlier than ever before, how do you remain firm yet compassionate, authoritative yet empathetic? We unravel these contradictions and the frustrations of repeatedly intervening with the same students in this episode.

We talk through:

the pressure of meeting expectations
overwhelm
reframing your duties for your own optimal mental health
how "comprehensive" program expectations may be making intervention more difficult
that student behavior isn’t personal (even though it sometimes feels that way)
the imposter syndrome that often shows up during behavior intervention or de-escalation

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Article: A Rationale for Integrating Behavioral School Consultation and
Behavioral Family Theories: A Case Design

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Unpacking School Discipline: A Surprising Guide for School Counselors

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What if the key to better school counseling was learning from parenting styles? In this episode, I peel back the layers of school counseling, discipline, and classroom management by drawing parallels with the four parenting styles - uninvolved, permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative. It's an unconventional approach, to be sure, but one that can bring a fresh perspective to your role as a school counselor.

Dive into this conversation as I reflect on my years of experience in the schools and share my observations about managing discipline without being labelled as a disciplinarian. Whether you're dealing with rowdy students during class, managing chaos in common areas or navigating the intricacies of teaching social-emotional lessons, this episode is packed with insights to help you tackle it all. If you've ever questioned your role in enforcing discipline in school, this episode is a must-listen.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

What School Counselors May Not Realize About Solution-Focused Counseling

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Are you ready to uplevel your approach to school counseling? Our School for School Counselors Mastermind just completed a masterclass on Solution-Focused School Counseling, and I can't wait to share some of the invaluable insights and tools from that masterclass that can help transform your approach to working with students.

Gone are the days of generic solutions such as anger management or study skills groups. Instead, we talk about how to personalize each student's journey through solution-focused work, placing the power of change in the hands of the students, not our own predetermined agendas.

Prepare your heart and mind for a thought-provoking episode that's set to change your perspective on school counseling.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Timely Insights for New (And Not-So-New) School Counselors

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

This episode brings some of the very best conversations from our recent New Counselor Academy, where we brought together a group of school counselors who are in their early years of practice, sharing insights on everything from managing unrealistic expectations to avoiding the savior complex.

You'll hear some surprising thoughts on the importance of creating connections and how these relationships can be an effective tool in reducing dysregulation on campus. Learn from the experiences of those who have worked with the toughest students and gain tips on fostering relationships with reluctant students... as well as administrators.

In the second half of this episode, we discuss the subtle art of advocacy and patience. Listen to stories of how fostering relationships with stakeholders could grant you a seat at the table rather than aggressive lobbying. We discuss why patience, often underrated in our profession, is key.

You'll hear why you should NEVER let your data define you as a counselor.

And I wrap up the episode with a light-hearted story about my first day as school counselor that you will COMPLETELY identify with- you may even giggle out loud!

Whether you're an experienced school counselor or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire and enlighten you.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Beyond "Fixing" Things: Fostering Emotional Acceptance in School Counseling

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What happens when we stop trying to "fix" things for our students and start showing them how to accept negative emotions? In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, we examine the surprisingly transformative power of acknowledging and accepting negative emotions.

School counselors can serve as advocates and allies, but we are not magicians. Not every issue can be "fixed," and sometimes, the healthiest way forward may involve experiencing and accepting the not-so-pleasant emotions.

In this pod, I talk about how we can guide students to understand that emotions, like all things in life, are temporary, and how accepting these emotions can pave the way for better psychological well-being in the long run.

I also talk through the limitations of prescriptive approaches in school counseling and the potential pitfalls of readily-available resources, emphasizing the need for thoughtful, quality approaches that recognize the importance of negative emotions.

It's an interesting conversation, to be sure, and one I can't to share with you.

Resource:
Ford, B. Q., Lam, P., John, O. P., & Mauss, I. B. (2018). The psychological health benefits of accepting negative emotions and thoughts: Laboratory, diary, and longitudinal evidence. Journal of personality and social psychology, 115(6), 1075–1092. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspp0000157

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Navigating Needs Assessments and Climate Surveys in School Counseling

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What's the difference between needs assessments and climate surveys? We're diving into both the similarities and differences of these two school counseling tools in this episode. As we peel back the layers, we'll demystify their primary purposes, the kind of data they provide, and how they can be used to shape a more competent and effective school atmosphere for our students.

As we go, we'll also consider the world of student privacy regulations and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) - federal law you MUST be familiar with if you're contemplating administering needs assessments.

Which is my favorite? I'll tell all in the contest of needs assessments versus climate surveys. Buckle up for an enlightening conversation as we strive to become better school counselors- together.

Mentioned in this Episode:
New Counselors' Academy, August 23-25

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Empowering New School Counselors: Strategies for Success in Your First Year

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the club, new school counselors!

What are the "secrets" for your first year? What are the things that everyone forgets to tell you? We'll dive into four important components of OWNING your first year.

Plus, I'm thrilled to announce our upcoming New Counselor Academy—an event crafted to foster growth, encourage questions, and offer additional guidance for those fresh in the field.

Mentioned in this Episode:
New Counselors' Academy, August 23-25

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Ever Tried Capsule Counseling? Maybe You Should.

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Picture this: You’re a busy school counselor, juggling a multitude of tasks, feeling like there are never enough hours in the day. A new issue presents itself, you look around at all the binders and files and books and resources in your office, and you think, "What do I do??!!?"

Ever been there? You’re not alone. This week, I reveal how adopting a capsule wardrobe revolutionized my morning routine and, surprisingly, informed my counseling practice. Who thought getting dressed each day could teach us so much about organization and efficiency in school counseling?

It's time to work smarter, not harder, utilizing our own expertise rather than being overwhelmed by a bajillion questionable resources. I'll share my journey of simplifying my counseling toolbox and how it's made me a more effective school counselor.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Mapping Out Your Best Year Ever: A Guide for School Counselors

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Imagine beginning your school year fully prepared, with a clear roadmap for success. That's what we're talking about in this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast.

We dissect the best ways to plan for the year ahead, reduce cognitive load, and create effective boundaries that will streamline your school year through insights from our recent "Best Year Ever!" event.

As school counselors, we're well aware of the importance of calendar management. This episode contains valuable advice on keeping track of crucial dates such as local celebrations, test schedules, professional development opportunities, and more.

We also discuss the logistics of blending paper and electronic calendars, as well as the importance of recognizing staff and the significant dates surrounding their appreciation weeks. Learn from our experiences and master the art of reverse engineering school events to make your year run smoother.

Finally, we dive into the specifics of school counseling scheduling and planning, from lesson availability to individual student appointments and school-wide data efforts. We offer tips for maintaining flexibility in your schedule. If you're a new school counselor or a seasoned veteran, this episode is packed with insights that will make your coming school year run like clockwork.

Mentioned in this Episode:
"Best Year Ever!" Replays and Resources
ASCA Awareness Dates Calendar
New Counselor Academy
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Banish Imposter Syndrome: Easy Ways to Step Into School Counseling Confidence

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Ever felt like a fraud in your own profession, plagued by the fear of being exposed as an imposter? Believe it or not, you're not alone.

This episode takes a deep dive into the reality of imposter syndrome in the world of school counseling, a phenomenon surprisingly prevalent among all our colleagues. We dissect how factors like a new environment or a challenging atmosphere can amplify these feelings and emphasize the need for proactive management and understanding of each campus' unique dynamics.

But that's not all! We then pivot towards strengthening the foundation of your counseling practice. Learn why a robust professional development community is vital, how to set boundaries to avoid burnout, and ways to deal with perfectionistic tendencies. We also make a compelling case for how maintaining good data can actually help eliminate imposter syndrome!

And because we understand the demands of a new academic year, we're inviting you to our Best Year Ever Celebration, a four-night event designed to equip school counselors for the challenges ahead. Get ready for an episode crammed with insights, tips, and advice that will leave you feeling more confident and prepared in your school counseling journey.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
"Best Year Ever!" Free Event
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Secret to Getting Your Principal to Listen

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Does it feel like your principal isn't listening to you?

Is it difficult to inspire change on campus because it seems no one understands your role?

In this episode, I highlight the power of social capital and the role it plays in school counseling advocacy efforts. It’s a long game, and I talk about the value of understanding your environment and how it influences your counseling approach, as well as the importance of fostering strong bonds with your administrative team and the art of advocating for change "from the inside out."

By the time you're done listening, you'll have a fresh perspective on your role as a school counselor and your professional relationships on campus. You'll have the secret for building the foundations of great communication and will finally have a roadmap for becoming heard.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Mastering Work-Life Balance: Transition Rituals for School Counselors

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

As school counselors, we often carry the weight of our students' problems and it's a struggle to not bring those concerns home. So how do we transition from the heavy role of school counseling to being fully present in our personal lives? This episode tackles that very question, providing you with practical strategies and introducing the concept of a transition ritual - a game changer in achieving the elusive work-life balance.

You'll learn how to create a transition ritual that works for you, one that will truly help you leave the work day behind. We’ll guide you through the process, explain how to build this habit and make it stick. Plus, we'll also be talking about our upcoming Best Year Ever event on July 25th - a fantastic opportunity to gear up for the new school year. So, join us as we navigate the tricky waters of separating our professional lives from our personal ones, and learn how to truly unwind after a hard day's work.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Best Year Ever *FREE* Event
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Atomic Habits by James Clear
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Present Like a Pro: Essential Tips for School Counselors (Meet the Counselor)

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

***JOIN OUR FREE "BEST YEAR EVER!' EVENT!***
Check out the details at https://www.schoolforschoolcounselors.com/bestyearever

Ever felt queasy at the thought of addressing a room full of people? Considered calling in sick instead of presenting to campus staff? Or does imposter syndrome have you feeling worried about being judged when speaking during professional development?

This episode fo the School for School Counselors Podcast can help you not just survive, but truly rock your next presentation. Whether it's a simple staff meeting, a 'Meet the School Counselor' presentation, or something in between, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you leave a lasting impression. Learn the true art of rehearsal (it's different than what you may suspect!), and discover how to engage your audience in the most genuine way possible.

Don't miss out - press play now, and get ready to let your expertise shine!

Mentioned in this Episode:
Best Year Ever *FREE* Event
School for School Counselors Mastermind
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Advocacy, Sustainability, and the Future of School Counseling- with Brooke

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Can you believe it's been a year since the School for School Counselors podcast began? We owe our incredible success to you, our amazing school counselor colleagues.

To celebrate this milestone, my right-hand and other half of my brain, Brooke, joins me for a special episode. Together, we reminisce about our journey, discuss our experience with the podcast, and share future plans. Join us as we reflect on our first year and look forward to what's ahead- like our upcoming Best Year Ever event.

Don't miss this celebratory episode filled with reflection, growth, and anticipation for the future of School for School Counselors.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Best Year Ever *FREE* Event
School for School Counselors Mastermind
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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Must-Haves Revealed: Upgrade Your School Counseling Space

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Are you ready to level up your counseling room for the upcoming school year? We've got you covered with this week's episode, where we reveal the must-have items and resources recommended after polling over 8,000 members of our Facebook group! From technology tools and books to games and snacks, we dive into the essential elements that will create a welcoming and effective space for your students. Be sure to visit our website for the complete list, available for free, as you curate your perfect collection:
schoolforschoolcounselors.com/musthaves

The conversation doesn't stop there - we also tackle the lively debates around must-haves for your school counseling office, discussing everything from pens to fidgets. Discover some unexpected items that made the list, the importance of curating your collection, and why relying too heavily on materials to solve problems can be misleading.

Mentioned in this episode:
School Counselor Must-Haves List
School for School Counselors Facebook group

Other Resources:

Sawyer, A.G.; Dick, L.K.; Sutherland, P. Online Mathematics Teacherpreneurs Developers on Teachers Pay Teachers: Who Are They and Why Are They Popular? Educ. Sci. 2020, 10, 248. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci10090248

Gallagher, J., Swalwell, K., and Bellows, M.E. (2019). “Pinning” with Pause: Supporting Teachers’ Critical Consumption on Sites of Curriculum Sharing. Social Education 83(4), pp. 217–224. Accessed from https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elizabeth-Bellows/publication/339697418_Pinning_with_Pause_Supporting_Teachers'_Critical_Consumption_on_Sites_of_Curriculum_Sharing/links/5e5ffdc2a6fdccbeba1c75ec/Pinning-with-Pause-Supporting-Teachers-Critical-Consumption-on-Sites-of-Curriculum-Sharing.pdf

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Hate Hearing About "Self-Care?" An Alternative for School Counselors

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to practice summer self-care in order to recharge and prepare for the upcoming school year. But despite taking time off and engaging in self-care activities, you still feel burnt out and emotionally drained. It's frustrating and disheartening.

The good news is- there is an alternative approach that can actually utilize to improve your emotional wellness and resilience during the summer. In this episode, we'll explore the power of self-compassion and how prioritizing it can combat burnout and boost your overall effectiveness as a counselor. Join us as we delve into the key techniques for developing self-compassion, the role of spirituality in counseling, and how to create meaningful self-compassionate habits and rituals for a truly rejuvenating summer break.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Wellness Wheel Self-Assessment
Show resources

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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ADHD Support Revolution: Rethinking Interventions for Success

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Do you ever feel like your interventions for students with ADHD are just not working as you expected? Join me, Steph Johnson, as we unravel some of the complexities of ADHD and focus on the concept of positive and negative urgency—an essential factor in understanding and supporting students with ADHD. Through a relatable example of a student shutting down in class, I'll walk you through the typical steps we take to intervene and how understanding the differences between negative and positive urgency can lead us to more intentional and targeted interventions, ultimately fostering an environment where students feel supported and successful.

Tune in as we dive into various interventions designed for students with negative and positive urgency. Discover why different approaches may be indicated for students based on the type or urgency involved. More importantly, we'll emphasize the significance of creating a safe space for students with ADHD to express their needs and how this understanding can lead to more effective interventions. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will undoubtedly enhance your decision-making and academic success for students with ADHD.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind (Summer Book Study)
DBT Skills in Schools (NOT an affiliate link/we have no affiliation)

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Unlocking Student Success: Integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy in School Counseling

Mon, 29 May 2023 17:00:00 -0500

Are your students struggling with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, or impulsive behaviors? Discover the incredible benefits of integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approaches into school counseling! With mental health concerns on the rise in schools, DBT can provide essential life skills and support for students facing various challenges. In this episode, we dive deep into DBT resources and share valuable insights from recent studies on the topic.

Join us as we discuss the implementation of DBT in schools and how it can boost students' self-efficacy and emotional regulation skills. We examine important findings by Sikora (2020) and Katz et al. (2020), revealing the potential of DBT to increase academic performance, improve focus, reduce anxiety, and build resilience in students as early as the third grade. Plus, don't miss our unique no-stress summer book study on DBT Skills in Schools – a fantastic opportunity to learn and grow together as we help our students succeed. Check out the show notes for more resources and information!

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind (Summer Book Study)
DBT Skills in Schools (NOT an affiliate link/we have no affiliation)

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Be an Even Better School Counselor Next Year- Guaranteed

Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I've got a little trick that's going to ensure that you next-level your school counseling game for next year.

What would it be like to walk away at the end of the school year and not even think about school again until it's time to go back on duty? What would it be like to know for sure that you're going to be up-leveling your game come fall?

What if you had your program components prepared and ready to go in under half an hour?

Even if you've been school counseling for a while and you feel like you know all of your campus responsibilities like the back of your hand, there is still something to be said for the process I'm going to lay out for you. So jump in to this episode because I promise, no matter how long you've been doing this job, it's going to be beneficial.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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School Counseling Reflections: When May Feels Like "Too Much"

Mon, 15 May 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What's happening in school counseling right now?
Everybody's EXHAUSTED.
Right?
Just absolutely exhausted.

In this episode, I offer my thoughts and ways to maintain perspective in this overwhelming and busy time of year.

Mentioned in this Episode:
**FREE DOWNLOAD- Student Summer/Safety Plan**
School for School Counselors Mastermind
"Get the Job!" Interview Prep Program

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Student Summer Safety Plans

Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Summer plans are something that you can help students develop to help hold off any "summer slide" of social emotional skills they've built during the school year.

They can also be used to support students who may be living in tenuous circumstances or for other social-emotional concerns.

But how to write them? What do we include? And how can we know that students will even utilize them over the summer?

We'll dive into all this and more in this episode.

Mentioned in this Episode:
**FREE DOWNLOAD- Student Summer/Safety Plan**
School for School Counselors Mastermind
"Get the Job!" Interview Prep Program

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

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Unpacking the Role of School Counselors: We're NOT "Adjunct Teachers"

Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

School counselors often fall into a gray area on campus, not quite fitting into the "administrator" or "teacher" category. This can result in ambiguity around our job roles and expectations.

With Teacher Appreciation Week approaching, it's common for school counselors to be included in celebrations despite our jobs being vastly different from classroom teachers. Continuing to group counselors in with teachers could have consequences, so in this episode, we'll explore ways to set ourselves apart and ensure that all school counselors receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Social-Emotional Learning vs Character Education: Are You Teaching the Right One?

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0500

The debate regarding the implementation of character education versus social-emotional learning (SEL) has been reignited recently in light of Florida's new Resiliency Education Standards.

Character education emphasizes the development of specific virtues, such as respect, responsibility, and citizenship. Proponents of character education argue that these virtues can be taught in a structured way, and that this approach leads to better academic and social outcomes for students.

On the other hand, social-emotional learning (SEL) focuses on the development of emotional intelligence, including skills like self-awareness, self-management, and relationship-building. Advocates of SEL argue that these skills are essential for success in school and in life, and that they can be taught through explicit instruction and experiential learning.

So, which approach is best for students? The answer isn’t simple, as both character education and SEL have their strengths and weaknesses. We break it all down in this episode.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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WTH Just Happened to School Counseling in Florida??!!?

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I HOPE I AM WRONG about what appears to be a systematic dismantling of school counselors in Florida. Less than a month ago, the Florida First Lady announced an initiative to "reframe mental health education with a focus on resiliency" and teach students to pull themselves up by their bootstraps.

As part of this initiative, Florida is inviting literally anyone off the street to take a short "counseling course," go into schools, and serve as unqualified "coaches" in lieu of students accessing school counselors.

"Coaching" isn't counseling.

And if that wasn't bad enough- there's more.

Listen in on the details of the plan (which has already been approved by the Florida Department of Education), the discrediting of school counselors as school-based mental health providers, and discussion about WHY ON EARTH our representatives aren't making noise about this.

It's a modern tragedy in the making, and something we should ALL be talking about.

Referenced in this episode:
Florida Dept of Ed article: "First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Florida Is First in Nation to Reframe and Rethink the Way Mental Health Is Taught in Schools"

Orlando Spectrum News 13: "Florida to reframe mental health education with a focus on resiliency"

Florida School Counselor Association comments from their Advocacy Committee (Mar 28, 2023)

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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STOP Talking About ODD! What School Counselors Can Do Instead

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a term that we hear people toss around in schools all the time. It just seems to be the world we're living in right now: if you don't know what to do with "that kid," if they get persnickety, if they're argumentative, if they don't cooperate, they refuse to complete work, threaten others, etc., etc... everyone seems to feel free to start talking about ODD.

In this episode, I'll talk about the damage that can be done with this type of label, why some prominent experts think a whole other term is better, and how can you support ANY student with tough behaviors, ODD or not.

I'll also give you the information and insight you need to confidently reframe conversations with teachers, administrators, or other staff when the idea of ODD comes up.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Post-Covid Kids and School Counseling

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0500

It seems we're always talking about, "Before COVID... Since COVID... Now that COVID has happened...."

I wanted to bring you an episode about what REALLY happened for students and families during the height of the COVID pandemic. Although a lot of the research is still yet to be released, what we do have so far has given us some really interesting insights as to where students stood during the fury of lockdowns and social distancing, and some of the things they experienced along the way.

Those factors have definitely come into play in current school settings, so it's important for all of us as school counselors to dive into what we know so far about COVID and post-COVID kids.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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When Tragedy Strikes and It Feels Like Too Much

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

When tragedy strikes, it's hard to know what the next best steps are as school counselors. For so many people, the world feels like a disorienting mess right now.

So what do we do in times like these?

I'm offering some thoughts from our recent School for School Counselors open support & consultation chat.

Because when I learned that many of you were hurting, I immediately dropped all plans and began working to ensure that my team and I could provide space for our colleagues to process their thoughts about what our work means and how we can rise to the occasion without losing ourselves.

These are some of my thoughts that I recorded immediately after the chat.

I'm releasing them in hopes that they somehow speak to the purpose and meaning in your work.

Be well, friends. ❤️️

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Hang out in our Facebook group

Want to Feel Good About Your School Counseling Career? You Need This

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind <--- signup/info link

Cited Sources:
Bardhoshi, G., et al. (2022). Novice school counselors’ burnout profiles and professional experiences: A mixed-methods study. Professional School Counseling, 26(1): 1–13. doi: 10.1177/2156759X221126686

Butler, S.K. (2005). Collective self-esteem and burnout in professional school counselors. Professional School Counseling, 9(1): 55-62.

Frye, H.J., Cook, R.M. & Baylin, A. (2022). Exploring individual and organizational predictors of school counselor wellness. Professional School Counseling, 26(1): 1–9. doi: 10.1177/2156759X211067959

Lyon, A.R., et al. (2013). “If it’s worth my time, I will make the time”: School-based providers’ decision-making about participating in an evidence-based psychotherapy consultation program. Adm Policy Ment Health, 40(6): 467–481.

Jump in, ask questions, share your ideas and become a part of the most empowering school counseling group on the planet! (Join us to see if we're right.)

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Never worry if you're ready for that big interview or whether you'll be able to answer the questions well without a ton of stress or nervousness... with our exclusive interview prep sequence, materials and templates, you'll be prepared to SHINE!

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Surprising Truths About Color Psychology and School Counselor Interviews

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We get lots of questions from our "Get the Job!" prep program each year, and one of the most popular is, "What do I wear?"

In this episode of the podcast, we'll jump into color choice: how are the colors of your interview attire perceived, and what does the research really say? We'll walk through the research about your color choices, how they may be interpreted, and how you can use the research to your advantage.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Mentioned in this Episode:
"Get the Job!" <--- signup/info link

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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The Secret Ingredient in School Counselor Success & Longevity

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0600

It's time to focus on something that is really overlooked in our field and that we should be talking more about: it could be the single most important skill that you can develop to not only survive- but thrive!- in your career as a school counselor. Can you guess what it might be?

Self-compassion may seem like kind of a silly thing to be talking about when we think about all of the really big, important, stressful things going on in our school counseling worlds, but research shows us that self-compassion is vital if you want to endure in this career for any amount of time.

Jump in to see if you REALLY know what self-compassion is, how to exercise it when you work in an environment where you feel like you're being judged EVERY SINGLE DAY or where you don't have a moment's peace, and how to cultivate your capacity for self-compassion.

We round things out with a bonus exercise in self-compassion that may completely change the way you see your work- for the better!

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Mentioned in this Episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Harvard Health: 4 Ways to Boost Your Self-Compassion

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

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Hot or Not? Universal Screeners & What Most School Counselors Overlook

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Let's talk universal screeners. They are a huge topic of interest in school counseling right now, with lots and lots of "buzz": which are the best, which best capture particular trends on campuses, which are evidence-based... on and on and on and on. Everyone wants to talk about universal screeners.

There are, however, a few important caveats that aren't as readily discussed. We're going to hop into those with this episode in an attempt to give you a really comprehensive overview of universal screeners as well as some factors you probably haven't considered yet.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Finding Common Ground With Administrators for School Counseling Satisfaction

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0600

So often, finding common ground with your administrator feels difficult. You can't see eye to eye. You feel like they just don't understand where you're coming from and no matter how much you talk, no matter how much you try to convince, no matter how much you try to advocate, your efforts fall on deaf ears.

In this episode, we'll walk through the essentials of establishing common ground with your administrator. Common ground allows you to work together efficiently, effectively, and with collegial respect, but as a bonus, this mutual appreciation will also strengthen your advocacy efforts and professional satisfaction.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Happy National School Counseling Week 2023!

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0600

You don't need any tips or tricks, and you don't need any tools of the trade this week. You need something appropriate for National School Counseling Week. In this episode, I'm talking off the cuff: no outline, no preconceived thoughts, and no edits.

Straight from the heart.

I just want to tell you how much I appreciate what you do each and every day.

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Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

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National School Counseling Week: The Great Divide

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0600

The biggest source of division in the school counseling world rears its ugly head this time of year in the form of National School Counseling Week. Why is it divisive? Why should you care? Listen to discover the real culprits and what school counselors can do to change the direction of contentious conversations.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors "Get the Job!"
School for School Counselors Mastermind
ASCA Promotional Toolkit & Advocacy Toolkit

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

How to Rock Your School Counseling Internship

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Many of you are getting started in your spring semester internships, or you may have aspiring school counselors on your campus that could use a little bit of help and- guidance.

In this episode, we'll walk through what I see as the four most IMPORTANT components to a successful school counseling internship. And what you hear may surprise you...

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors "Get the Job!"
Get the Job Podcast
Rock Your Internship Cheat Sheet (free download!)
Résumé Bootcamp

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Why Most School Counseling Interview Advice is Dead Wrong

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0600

About this time of year, you will start seeing lots of folks talking about job interview advice. It will be everywhere. There will be people popping out of the woodwork from this way and that, telling you all the best ways they think you should interview, all the things you should do with your resume... all of the things... based purely on their own personal (and often limited) interviewing experiences.

In this episode, I walk through the content one such "expert" and all the things I heard in their presentation that were just flat-out wrong. Then I give you practical, actionable strategies for discerning whether your advisors ACTUALLY know what they're talking about so you don't get taken advantage of.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Get the Job Podcast

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Preparing for Random Acts of Kindness Week? Here's Your Plan

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Let's start planning for Random Acts of Kindness Week! This year, RAK Week falls February 14th through the 20th, which is right on the heels of National School Counseling Week. I personally love both of those weeks: the combo is a great opportunity to show the power (or potential) of a comprehensive school counseling program in conjunction with a visible demonstration of how the concepts school counselors emphasize can be implemented in real life for real change.

With that in mind, let's get our week planned out and ready to go- together.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind
Get the Job Podcast

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

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Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Ready to Rock a New Semester of School Counseling? The New Year (re)Start is HERE!

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0600

*BONUS- Listen to the end for an exclusive sneak peek of an awesome upcoming addition to the School for School Counselors world!*

So many school counselors love the start of the spring semester! It feels like a chance for growth, some fresh perspective, and it gives a feeling of potential coming up: that's super exciting!

The start of a new semester also prompts us to take a moment to reevaluate where we stand, where we're headed and what we want to do to get there.

In this episode, we walk through our exclusive New Year (re)Start sequence, a tried-and-true approach to beginning the new semester with calm, confidence, and perspective. If you're looking for a stress-free way to ease back into school counseling life after the holidays, this is your solution.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

The REAL Reasons School Counselors Feel Absolutely Exhausted

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Feeling completely exhausted as the semester comes to an end? We often want to attribute our feelings of exhaustion or overwhelm to things such as, "It's been a long semester," or, "December is always tough- this is no exception," or, "I'm serving an insane caseload... of course I'm tired!" But really, the roots of your exhaustion run much deeper.

This episode strives to take a moment to validate where you are and empower you to move forward. You can do this!

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Working with "Difficult" Parents: How School Counselors Can Promote Positive Outcomes

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Ever run across parents that you just cannot seem to figure out? Parents who are quick to blame, won't return calls, or show no follow-up at home? Parents who rarely make an appearance at school?

Or how about the "helicopter" and "lawnmower parents" that just absolutely insist on paving the easy route for their students, no matter what?

These kinds of parent situations can feel frustrating, for sure, but there are some things you can do to better understand the dynamics of the relationship and facilitate positive outcomes for everyone involved. That's what this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast is about.

Mentioned in this episode:
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

How School Counselors Can Work With Difficult Principal Personalities, Part II (Narcissists and Other Fun Folks)

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

It sometimes takes one or two different ways of approaching a difficult administrator to provide a change in perspective and develop a good working relationship with that person.

Or many of you may just need to figure out how to just get along with a difficult boss until you can find another campus to move to or different district to work in. You may not have the luxury of moving on if the school climate does not suit you.

This week we add to the profiles of the difficult personalities we discussed in episode 24 (the avoidant, histrionic, and borderline principals) to include the workaholic and narcissistic principal personalities.

Do our profiles of difficult personalities describe every administrator walking the planet? Absolutely not. Do these one dimensional descriptions describe anyone perfectly? Absolutely not. And should we attempt to diagnose our bosses in our heads? No, we should not, my friends. We should not be doing that.

But an honest look at some of these characteristics can provide us with insight as to how to make our work lives a little easier as we endeavor to serve students and families within challenging circumstances.

Mentioned in this episode:
"Get the Job!" Interview Prep Program

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

How School Counselors Can Work With Difficult Principal Personalities

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

We spend more than half our waking lives at work. When you have to spend that time working with a difficult personality, it can make the days go by so slowly! In this episode, I outline three difficult principal personality types and how school counselors can approach each in a way that is mutually beneficial.

Mentioned in this episode:
Better Than Black Friday Event
"Get the Job!" Interview Prep Program

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

What Every School Counselor Wishes They Could Say to THAT Parent

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

The longer you work in school counseling, the more you'll meet.

Disgruntled parents that CANNOT be pleased or have completely unrealistic expectations about your job scope and time.

It's frustrating when you're giving your all to serve your students but get told you're not doing enough, or you're not doing the right things.

Or worse yet, they don't tell you. They go straight to your principal.

This episode is a letter* to “THAT parent": a cathartic manifesto, straight from the heart, intended to remind you, School Counselor, that when you’re in a difficult situation, you’re not alone.

Note: This "letter" is for illustrative purposes only and is in no way intended to be a suggestion of parent communication or a depiction of any particular person.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

4 Ways School Counselors Can Prepare to Effectively Help Students Through the Holidays

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

School counselors, let's talk about how to plan ahead proactively for the holiday season.

So if you've been in school counseling for any amount of time, you know that this time of year is when things really start to get interesting.

Students may start experiencing more stressors than normal. Family relationships, financial stress, differences in routine, structure, and schedules: there are all kinds of things that go into creating holiday feelings tornadoes. And while some students handle it well, some of our students just don't.

It's always a good idea to start planning ahead for these last weeks before the end of the first semester so we can work to remain proactive during the holidays. We want to be sure that we're meeting the needs of students efficiently and effectively.

Want the free prep guide we mentioned in this episode? You can grab it here.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

What's Your School Counselor to Student Ratio? If It's 1:250, Don't Listen to This

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

What's your counselor-to-student ratio? If you're like the majority of school counselors, it is nowhere near the recommended 1:250. Take a listen to this episode for a few shifts that will help you find peace with a large caseload while ensuring that you're taking care of yourself.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Not "Comprehensive"? How to Find Joy in "Imperfect" School Counseling Programs

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

From the moment that you begin studying school counseling, you're told about
"comprehensive school counseling" programs. They're touted as the holy grail for school counselors: the ultimate achievement.

The problem is, there are many of you that are feeling defeated as you strive to meet all the qualifications of a truly comprehensive program, even though the statistics show it's not an attainable solution for the majority of US school counselors.

So if you're feeling "less-than" because you can't seem to get everything in order for the kind of program everyone else is saying you should be running. give this a listen. It just might change your perspective and help you see all the things you're doing RIGHT- despite the models.

In this episode, we talk about:
Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors (Replay available through October 30, 2022)
School for School Counselors Mastermind
American School Counselor Association- RAMP

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Are You a Frenetic or Neglected School Counselor? Here's How to Tell and Why It Matters.

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I focus on the types of burnout school counselors typically experience, how to recognize them, and what to do about them even if you feel there's nothing you can do.

It's so important for school counselors to be thinking about this even if you aren't feeling burnt out because remaining vigilant and proactive can help insulate us from the effects of vicarious trauma, unhealthy school environments, and the stress that comes from working in education.

Also- have you joined Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors yet? Go get signed up for this completely free event! School for School Counselors is going to be bringing you our eight best habits of high performing school counselors, with lots of inspiration, insight, and ideas. You don't want to miss it!

In this episode, we talk about:
Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors (Free event! October 20, 2022)
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Need Self-Care Ideas that Don't Stink? Learn your Burnout Type.

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0500

It seems everywhere we turn, school counselors are being reminded to engage in "self-care." But if you're anything like most school counselors, typical self-care suggestions may leave you angry and irritated because they're so out of touch. In this episode, we'll look at different burnout personalities to give us a bit better idea of how to hold burnout at bay with meaningful, practical self-care efforts.

Also- have you joined Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors yet? Go get signed up for this completely free event! School for School Counselors is going to be bringing you our eight best habits of high performing school counselors, with lots of inspiration, insight, and ideas. You don't want to miss it!

In this episode, we talk about:
Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors (Free event! October 20, 2022)
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Are You a School Counselor Headed Toward Burnout? It's Not All In Your Head

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0500

So many conversations in the school counselor world these days are about burnout, and this talk seems to really be hitting earlier in the school year than usual. In this episode, we're going to take a walk through the idea of burnout and uncover the reasons why you might be feeling that way- plus, we'll give you an action plan to help cope when things feel difficult- or to work to keep burnout at bay altogether!

In this episode, we talk about:
Eight Habits of Amazing School Counselors (Free event! October 20, 2022)
School for School Counselors Mastermind

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Attendance Concerns? How to Address School Refusal

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Do you have students on your campus currently that are having difficulty "remembering" to go to school? We've seen so many students struggling with attendance since the covid shutdowns- even students that we previously were not worried about!

In this episode, I'll bringing the four primary reasons students refuse to attend school, as well as what the research says are best practices for addressing students' school refusal and encouraging them to jump back into attending daily.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

What You're Doing Wrong With Separation Anxiety (And Why It's Not Your Fault!)

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

This week's podcast episode is for any school counselor that's been at their wit's end with a crying, screaming, perhaps running, student at the start of almost EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. It's for school counselors who've tried all the advice they've seen elsewhere but are still shaking their head, wondering why they can't get a certain student to class without a fight. It's for the school counselor who braces themself when a particular student is dropped off at school, who tries desperately to manage the fallout of an anxious, angry student and not feel like a total failure when all eyes in the hallway are on THEM.

Been there?

If you've battled separation anxiety-type behaviors in students before or are smack-dab in the middle of it now, you need to listen to this episode. I'll talk about why separation anxiety isn't always what it seems, how popular advice is keeping you stuck in a cycle of chaos, and some alternative interventions you can work with instead to facilitate student success.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

My WTF File & How Social Media Groups Could Hurt Your School Counseling Career

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0500

So much noise! So many people battling to be seen as the "expert." Our school counseling world is drowning in noise and people who are desperate to be heard on social media. It's creating a very dangerous environment for school counselors.

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, I'm going to give examples of some dangerous and misleading information that I see on social media A LOT and how many school counselors are even being manipulated in these groups! I'll also show you how to avoid the noise and hype (don't worry- I won't tell you to leave your school counseling groups!) to find your own safe, reliable information without having to rely on social media networks full of strangers.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Feeling Unheard? Four Magical Ingredients for Successful School Counseling Advocacy

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

School counselors are constantly being instructed to advocate for our school counseling programs, but there's one big elephant in the room that no one's talking about. No one is telling you HOW to advocate. You hear lots of little one-off one liners about how to advocate for your program, but this info don't even begin to scratch the surface of what successful advocacy actually looks like.

In this episode, we'll look at advocacy through the lens of negotiation, and I'll reveal the four ingredients that you need for your negotiations to be successful. It you want to make significant changes for your program, you definitely need to give this episode a listen.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Blast from the Past! A Different Understanding of School Counseling Data

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the School for School Counselors Podcast, we take an unusual perspective on school counseling program data: how it's collected, what we do with it once we have it, and why it's important in the first place.

Folks with a little more life experience will giggle as we walk down memory lane a bit and pull back the curtain for our more youthful school counselors to give a glimpse of what life- and documentation- used to look like "back in the day."

If you're struggling to get motivated to begin or sustain a data-driven school counseling program, you're going to want to give this episode a listen.

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Overscheduled and Overwhelmed? Here's How to Feel In Control Again

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

So much of the feedback we hear from school counselors centers around feeling overwhelmed, particularly when we feel like's there's too much to do and no way to get it all taken care of. In this episode, we'll look into:

- the common phenomenon of overscheduling
- how too much planning can actually lead to overwhelm and burnout
- a simple strategy for addressing overwhelm
- resources for bringing everything into place

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!

Ready to spend a few days this summer with me, geeking out over school counseling and preparing for your best year ever? Grab your ticket here before this limited-seat event sells out!

********

Needs Assessments, Minute Meetings & PPRA

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0500

If you've been a school counselor for a hot second, you know that the chatter at the beginning of the school year in August and September almost always centers around these two things: needs assessments and minute meetings.

How do I administer a needs assessment?
What questions do I ask?
What do I do with the information once I have it?
What's a minute meeting?

We've got you!

In this episode, we'll break down :
- what needs assessments and minute meetings are and how they're administered
- why you may not need- or want- to do either!
- characteristics of effective and meaningful surveys
- PPRA and how it can really limit the ethical use of needs assessments

Our goal at School for School Counselors is to help school counselors stay on fire, make huge impacts for students, and catalyze change for our roles through grassroots advocacy and collaboration. Listen to get to know more about us and our mission, feel empowered and inspired, and set yourself up for success in the wonderful world of school counseling.

Hang out in our Facebook group

A modern, elegant take on the traditional school counselor planner with an easy, minimalistic vibe.

Join the School for School Counselors Mastermind

Did someone share this podcast with you? Be sure to subscribe for all the new episodes!!